MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger How to Avoid Tax Scams
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Mar 22, 2026 They dig into the IRS 'Dirty Dozen' and why tax-season scams are getting more sophisticated. Learn how the IRS actually communicates and which contact methods are red flags. Hear about stolen Social Security numbers, return fraud, and the value of an identity protection PIN. Get practical tips on vetting tax preparers, reporting fraud, and tools to block scam calls and texts.
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Ignore Urgent IRS Impersonation Messages
- Do not trust urgent-sounding calls or texts claiming to be from the IRS.
- The IRS generally uses snail mail and will not demand immediate payment or threaten jail over phone or text messages.
Fraudsters File Returns Using Stolen SSNs
- Criminals are increasingly filing tax returns in your name using stolen Social Security numbers.
- You often only discover this when you file and the IRS says a return already exists in your name.
Use An IRS Identity Protection PIN
- Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN if you worry your information is exposed.
- The IP PIN prevents anyone else from filing a return in your name because only you have the special PIN.