Understanding Legitimate IRS Calls
The IRS may call you for various reasons, including to discuss your tax debt, confirm your identity, or schedule an audit. Legitimate IRS calls are typically made by revenue officers or representatives from the IRS's Automated Collection System.
If you receive a call from the IRS, remain calm and ask for the representative's name, badge number, and a call-back number to verify their identity. You can also request a written notice or visit an IRS office to confirm the call's legitimacy.
Identifying IRS Scams
IRS scams often involve threatening or aggressive calls, demanding immediate payment or personal financial information. Scammers may claim you owe back taxes or face arrest, deportation, or loss of your driver's license if you don't comply.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, be cautious of calls that ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards. The IRS will never demand payment over the phone or request sensitive information without sending a written notice first.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call
If you're unsure whether a call is legitimate or a scam, hang up and contact the IRS directly using a verified phone number, such as the IRS's toll-free number (1-800-829-1040). You can also report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
Keep in mind that the IRS will never leave a message with a call-back number or ask you to click on a link to resolve a tax issue. Be cautious of emails or text messages claiming to be from the IRS, as these are often phishing attempts.
Tax Debt and Collection
If you owe back taxes, the IRS may send you a notice or call you to discuss payment options. You can work with a tax professional or attorney to negotiate a payment plan, offer in compromise, or currently not collectible status.
The IRS offers various tax relief programs, such as the Fresh Start Initiative, to help individuals and businesses resolve their tax debt. A qualified tax professional can help you navigate these options and ensure you're in compliance with tax laws.
Protecting Yourself from Tax Scams
To avoid falling victim to tax scams, stay informed about the latest IRS scams and phishing attempts. Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from the IRS, and never provide personal financial information without verifying the recipient's identity.
Regularly review your credit report and monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity. Consider working with a tax professional or attorney to ensure you're in compliance with tax laws and to resolve any tax-related issues promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a call from the IRS?
Remain calm, ask for the representative's name and badge number, and request a call-back number to verify their identity. You can also request a written notice or visit an IRS office to confirm the call's legitimacy.
How can I identify an IRS scam?
Be cautious of calls that ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards, or demand immediate payment or personal financial information. Legitimate IRS calls will not threaten or intimidate you.
What if I owe back taxes and the IRS calls me?
Work with a tax professional or attorney to negotiate a payment plan, offer in compromise, or currently not collectible status. The IRS offers various tax relief programs to help individuals and businesses resolve their tax debt.
Can I report a suspicious call to the IRS?
Yes, you can report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) or contact the IRS directly using a verified phone number, such as the IRS's toll-free number (1-800-829-1040).
How can I protect myself from tax scams?
Stay informed about the latest IRS scams, be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages, and never provide personal financial information without verifying the recipient's identity. Regularly review your credit report and monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity.
What if I'm not sure if a call is from the IRS or a scammer?
Hang up and contact the IRS directly using a verified phone number. You can also report the incident to TIGTA or consult with a tax professional or attorney to determine the best course of action.