Is the IRS Contacting Me or Is It a Scam?

Tips to avoid tax scams in 2025

Individuals and businesses should be mindful of scams throughout the year and in particular, during tax season as scam attempts tend to increase.

Knowledge is the best way to protect yourself and your data – you should know how the IRS will contact you so that you are able to best distinguish between legitimate contact and fraudulent scams.

Beware of urgent requests

Scammers mislead you about tax refunds, credits and payments. IRS impersonators often pressure you for personal, financial or employment information and/or money. If you receive calls or emails that demand immediate action, a red flag should go up.

• Demands or threats – IRS impersonators will often demand you to pay “now or else.” For example, an impersonator may threaten you with arrest or fines. An option to let you question or appeal the amount of tax you owe is not offered.
• Requests for payments using a gift card or prepaid debit card –Impersonators often demand quick payment using a gift card or prepaid debit card. This is not an IRS payment method.
• Pre-recorded voicemails (robocalls) – The IRS does not contact taxpayers using pre-recorded voicemails. If you receive one of these calls, hang up.

Social media scams

As the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Impersonators often leverage social media to promote promises of a big payday for taxpayers.

• Bad tax advice on social media may convince you to file tax forms that do not apply to you, mislead you about credits you can claim, or pay for fraudulent services.
• The IRS does not contact taxpayers or take payment on social media. Get trusted tax information on the IRS official social media accounts.

Harmful website links

Impersonators often include harmful website links in fraudulent emails or text messages. Clicking one of these links can provide impersonators with the opportunity to steal your information and/or money.

• Pause before you click. It is important to review email addresses and links before clicking links. Check for odd or misspelled email addresses and web addresses. If you’re not sure about the legitimacy of the link, go directly to the official IRS website.

How does the IRS contact taxpayers?

Regular U.S. Mail

The IRS typically contacts you the first time through regular U.S. mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. To verify the IRS sent the letter or notice, you can search for it on IRS.gov. Some letters are sent from private collection agencies.

Other ways the IRS may contact you:

• Email – The IRS will email you only with your permission, with a few exceptions like criminal investigations.
• Text message – The IRS will text you only with your permission.
• Phone – The IRS might call to discuss your case, verify information or set up a meeting.
• Fax – The IRS might send a fax to verify or request employment information.\
• In-person visit – These are rare. The IRS generally sends a letter before they visit. Only four types of IRS employees may visit your home or business. Each contacts you in specific ways and carries official identification (ID).

1. Revenue agents – examinations (audits)
2. Revenue officers – collections
3. Special agents – criminal investigations
4. Fuel inspectors

Find out how and when IRS employees visit you or your business.

Not sure it’s the IRS?

If you are concerned about a call or other contact from the IRS (or other taxing authority), please contact your Keiter representative or refer to the IRS website for resources and information. The IRS updates the content routinely as new information is available.