IRS Calls or Con? Tips for Identifying Scams
(LAKELAND, Fla.) – As technology becomes increasingly complex, hackers and identity thieves are working to keep up. Scam artists are now able to pose as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to steal taxpayers’ confidential information, according to the federal agency. If you get a call, text or letter that claims to be from the IRS — or if you see information online about how to get a big refund — it might be a scam. To sort out the good from the bad is where non-profit law firm FRLS - Florida Rural Legal Services comes in, providing clients with helpful IRS tips on protecting yourself and your private information.
How it starts
The IRS typically sends a letter to a permanent address before initiating any phone call or email contact. If you receive an unexpected email, text message, or phone call claiming to be from the IRS, it’s crucial to verify its authenticity by contacting IRS customer service directly.
Scammers often lure victims withenticing words like "credit," "payment," or "refund" and then prompt them to click on a deceptive link disguised as an IRS website. Be cautious of links that redirect to another site—they may be part of a scam.
Usually, after mailing a notice,the IRS may follow up with a phone call to discuss the issue further. If you haven't received a notice, do not share any sensitive information over the phone without first confirming the legitimacy of the call.
Do Not Pay
Scammers frequently usehigh-pressure tactics, such as demanding immediate payment, to trick taxpayers into revealing personal information. The IRS does not use pre-recorded messages to request money and will never ask for payment via prepaid cards, store cards,
or online gift cards.
Get Help
Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics nationwide, like FRLS’ LITC, aid low-income individuals disputing IRS matters and provide outreach to English language learners. Independent from the IRS and Taxpayer Advocate Service, the clinics represent taxpayers below certain income levels needing to resolve IRS problems. Clinics can represent clients in audits, appeals and tax collection disputes before the IRS and in court. They help respond to IRS notices and correct account issues, while informing taxpayers of their rights and responsibilities in various languages. Services are free. To qualify for an LITC's assistance, a taxpayer's income is usually
below a threshold and the IRS dispute amount is commonly under $50,000.
For more information, call 1-888-582-3410, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
About Florida Rural Legal Services:
Florida Rural Legal Services is a nonprofit law firm dedicated to providing high-quality legal services to low-income individuals and families across Florida. Our mission is to ensure access to justice for all, regardless of economic status.