Tax Season Scams: How to Spot, Avoid, and Respond to Fraud

Tax season is a prime time for scammers looking to steal personal and financial information. Every year, fraudsters use phishing emails, phone scams, and fake IRS correspondence to trick unsuspecting taxpayers. Being aware of common scams can help you stay protected.

Common Tax Scams to Watch Out For

Phishing Emails & Fake IRS Communication
Scammers send emails or text messages pretending to be the IRS, claiming you owe money or are due for a refund. These messages often include links that steal personal information.

Phone Scams & IRS Impersonators
Fraudsters may call, demanding immediate payment and threatening legal action if you don’t comply. They might even spoof caller IDs to make it appear as if they are calling from an official agency.

Fake Tax Preparers
Some scammers pose as tax professionals, offering to file your taxes for a fee—only to steal your refund or personal data.

Identity Theft & Fraudulent Returns
If a scammer gets hold of your Social Security number, they can file a tax return in your name and claim your refund before you do.

How to Avoid Tax Scams

✅ Know How the IRS Contacts You – The IRS never initiates contact via email, text, or social media. They will always send an official letter first.
✅ Verify Unexpected Communications – If you receive a suspicious call or email, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 or visit IRS.gov for verification.
✅ Protect Your Personal Information – Never share sensitive details over the phone, email, or text. Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication on tax-related accounts.
✅ File Early – The sooner you file your tax return, the less time scammers have to file a fraudulent return in your name.
✅ Use a Trusted Tax Preparer – Research tax professionals and ensure they have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) before sharing any information.

What to Do If You Fall for a Scam

Report It Immediately – If you’ve given out personal information or money, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
Alert Your Credit Union – If financial details were shared, notify your Credit Union to monitor and protect your accounts.
Place a Fraud Alert – Contact Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion to place a fraud alert on your credit file.
Report the Scam – File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the IRS at [email protected].

Staying vigilant during tax season can help protect your personal and financial information. If something seems suspicious, take a step back and verify before responding—scammers rely on urgency to trick their victims.

For more fraud prevention tips, visit Lincoln Park Community Credit Union’s Security Center. Stay safe this tax season!