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IRS Impersonation Scams – Did You Know?

Criminals continue to use IRS impersonation scams to steal money and personal information. Understanding how the IRS actually communicates can help you recognize and avoid these schemes.

The IRS generally initiates contact by sending a letter through the mail on official letterhead. If you have an IRS online account, you can log in to verify whether a notice is legitimate. If you are unsure, you can contact the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.

Scammers, however, often pose as the IRS in several ways:

By mail: Fake letters may look official but include incorrect contact details or suspicious language such as “in relation to your unclaimed refund.”

By email or text: The IRS does not initiate contact this way. Messages promising refunds, credits or urgent fixes often contain links to fraudulent websites designed to steal your information.

By phone: Scammers may leave threatening messages or demand immediate payment using gift cards or other unusual methods—tactics the IRS does not use.

In person: Unannounced visits are extremely rare. Most legitimate IRS appointments are scheduled in advance by letter.

If you suspect a scam, do not respond, click links or share information. Instead, contact the IRS using an official phone number to verify the situation.

IRS Online Business Accounts Now Available to Partnerships & Tax-Exempt Entities

The IRS has expanded its Business Tax Account (BTA) service, which enables businesses to handle many federal tax matters online. Previously, only sole proprietors, S corporations and C corporations could use the BTA platform. Now, partnerships (including LLCs that file taxes as partnerships), along with many tax-exempt organizations, can benefit from the convenience of a BTA as well.

Tasks that can be readily completed through the BTA system include checking tax balances, making payments, viewing payment histories and downloading digital IRS notices. In addition, BTA users can access payroll and income tax return transcripts, seek help with compliance concerns, or verify the accuracy of a business name or address on file with the IRS.

Many government entities, including tribal governments, also qualify to use the expanded BTA service.

IRS Business Tax Account: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/business-tax-account