Over the past several months, we have spoken with many individuals who have received threatening phone calls from the "IRS". The caller may demand immediate payment of back taxes, ask for a credit card number over the phone, or even threaten a lawsuit or arrest for failure to comply.
This is a widespread scam that is becoming more prevalent. As we approach tax season, it is more important than ever to be diligent and protect your personal information. To help you identify scammers, I've put together a list of 6 things the real IRS will never do.
The IRS will never:
- Call you to demand immediate payment. The IRS will never call you or email you about taxes owed - they will communicate via notices through the mail.
- Email you with a request for personal information, a request for payment, or send an email containing any attachments.
- Demand that you pay taxes without allowing you to question or appeal the amount you owe.
- Require that you pay taxes in a certain way - for example, with a pre-paid debit card.
- Ask for credit or debit information over the phone.
- Threaten to involve police or other agencies against you.
If you have questions or need assistance, I'm happy to help - please feel free to contact me directly anytime. To learn more, download our Tax Alert - Beware of IRS Telephone Scams:
