03/19/2026
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Every year the IRS announces a list of top tax scams that threaten the tax and financial information of taxpayers, businesses.
Letβs take a closer look at some of the ones taxpayers need to keep watch for, especially now.
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Phone scams continue to evolve, including calls that use computer-generated tactics and spoofed caller ID to appear legitimate. In general, the IRS contacts taxpayers by mail first and does not leave urgent, threatening prerecorded messages, call to demand immediate payment, or threaten arrest. If a taxpayer gets a suspicious IRS-related call, hang up.
Additionally, taxpayers should not rely on AI-generated responses to complex tax questions, and they should verify any calculations or information provided by artificial intelligence.
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Scammers send alarming emails, direct messages on social media, and texts that appear to be from the IRS. The messages direct taxpayers to fake IRS websites to βverifyβ accounts, enter personal information, or claim refunds. The IRS only emails or texts taxpayers after getting their permission, with a few exceptions like criminal investigations.
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Fraudsters often exploit tragedies and disasters by creating fake charities to collect donations and personal information.
Taxpayers who give money or goods to a charity may be able to claim a deduction on their tax return, but charitable donations only count if they go to a qualified tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS.
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A βghostβ preparer prepares a return but refuses to sign it and/or refuses to include a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). When a preparer refuses to sign or provide a PTIN, that is a major red flag; the taxpayer is legally responsible for what is filed. The IRS urges taxpayers to avoid preparers who will not sign the return and to choose reputable help. Taxpayers should never sign a blank or incomplete return. Instead use a trusted tax professional for help.
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Thereβs a lot of tax related misinformation on social media. Donβt be tempted by the promise of a larger refund. These viral βtax hacksβ often encourage taxpayers to file returns with false information or claim credits they donβt qualify for, leading to refund delays, audits, penalties, or worse. Only follow trusted advice from the IRS, tax professionals, and other reputable sources.
