03/27/2026
Common Scenarios for Fake Direct Deposit Letters
The "Unclaimed Refund" Scam: You receive a letter or email claiming you have an unclaimed refund due to a "computer error" or missed deduction. It asks for your bank details or a "processing fee" to release the funds.
The "Erroneous Deposit" Scam: Hackers use your stolen data to file a fraudulent return and have the refund deposited into your actual bank account. You then receive a fake letter or call from a "collection agency" or the "IRS" claiming the deposit was a mistake and demanding you wire the money back.
"We Couldn't Direct Deposit" Scam: A letter (often with a QR code) claims the IRS tried to deposit your refund but failed, prompting you to "verify" your account info on a fake website.
How to Spot a Fake IRS Letter
Missing Notice Numbers: Legitimate IRS letters always have a specific notice (CP) or letter (LTR) number in the top-right corner.
Unusual Payment Demands: The real IRS will never ask for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or prepaid debit cards.
Aggressive Tone: Scammers use threats of immediate arrest, deportation, or license suspension to create panic.
Poor Quality: Look for spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or low-resolution logos.
Suspicious Links: Official IRS links always end in .gov. Be wary of links like "irs.com" or shortened URLs.
IRS (.gov)
IRS (.gov)
Immediate Actions to Take
Do Not Click or Respond: Never click links, open attachments, or call the phone number provided in a suspicious letter.
Verify via Official Channels:
Log in to your Official IRS Online Account to check for a digital copy of the notice.
Call the official IRS customer service line at 1-800-829-1040 to verify the letter’s authenticity.
Report the Scam:
Forward phishing emails or photos of suspicious letters to [email protected].
Report impersonation attempts to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) or call 1-800-366-4484.
Handle Unexpected Refunds Properly: If you receive a direct deposit you did not expect, contact your bank's ACH department to have them return the funds to the IRS immediately.
