How to Know if the IRS Is Really Contacting You or If It’s a Scammer

mariadrg2021
Sep 19
2 min read

Identity thieves and tax scammers are more active than ever, trying to trick taxpayers through calls, emails, text messages, and even social media.Knowing how to identify if it’s really the IRS or a fraud attempt can save you from financial and legal trouble.

At MDR Tax Filing, we want to give you clear information so you can stay protected.

The IRS Never Initiates Contact by Email,

Text, or Social Media

If you receive an unexpected message on these platforms, beware! The IRS does not start official communication this way.

Common examples of electronic scams:

Phishing emails with subject lines like: “Action required: verify your tax refund”.
Fake IRS social media accounts asking for personal or financial details.
Text messages offering false “tax credits,” “stimulus payments,” or “fast refunds.”

All of these messages usually contain fraudulent links that direct you to fake websites mimicking the IRS.

Golden Rule: The IRS will never ask for personal information, credit card numbers, or login credentials through electronic messages.

Cartas y avisos oficiales

La primera forma en que el IRS se comunica con los contribuyentes es a través de una carta o aviso oficial enviado por correo.

Official Letters and Notices

The first way the IRS contacts taxpayers is through an official letter or notice sent by mail.

How to verify if it’s real:

The envelope and letter will have the official IRS logo.
It will include a notice or letter number (e.g., CP14, CP501, LT11).
The IRS will never ask you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or instant transfers.

You can verify any letter by visiting the official IRS section: Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter

📞 Phone Calls and In-Person Visits

The IRS can make phone calls or visit in person, but only after sending you an official letter first.

Cases when you may receive a legitimate call or visit:

IRS collection agents for overdue taxes.
Audit agents for an ongoing review.
Authorized staff with official credentials (they will always show a Treasury Department photo ID).

Never share personal information over the phone if you’re unsure who is calling. You can ask for the agent’s ID number and verify it by calling the IRS directly.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Scams

Never click on suspicious links.
Do not send money or personal information to anyone requesting it via email, social media, or text.
Always verify on the official IRS site: www.irs.gov.
Report scams by forwarding fraudulent emails to phishing@irs.gov.
When in doubt, check with your trusted tax advisor before responding.

Financial security starts with information. The IRS will never surprise you via email or text message: their first contact will always be an official letter.

At MDR Tax Filing, we’re here to help you interpret any IRS notice and guide you through your tax process with clarity and confidence.