Tax Season Scams to Watch Out For in 2025
Every year, as tax season approaches, scammers ramp up their efforts to take advantage of busy taxpayers. In fact, the IRS warns that tax-related scams tend to spike between January and April, when individuals and businesses are focused on filing returns.
Falling victim to one of these schemes can mean stolen refunds, identity theft, and months of financial headaches. Here’s what to watch out for in 2025 — and how to protect yourself.
1. Phishing Emails Claiming to Be from the IRS
Scammers send emails that look official, often with the IRS logo and subject lines like “Your Tax Refund Status” or “Urgent: Tax Account Issue.” These emails usually contain links to fake websites designed to steal your Social Security number, bank details, or login credentials.
What to Know:
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The IRS will never email you about a bill, refund, or personal tax information.
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If you receive such an email, do not click links or download attachments.
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Forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov.
2. Phone Calls Threatening Arrest or Legal Action
One of the most common scams involves a caller claiming to be from the IRS, threatening immediate arrest, license suspension, or deportation unless you pay right away.
What to Know:
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The IRS will never demand payment over the phone or threaten to send law enforcement.
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Payments are always made to the U.S. Treasury, not via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
3. Fake Tax Preparer Scams
Some scammers pose as legitimate tax professionals, offering low fees or “guaranteed refunds” to lure in clients. They may file false returns in your name or steal your refund entirely.
What to Know:
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Always verify a preparer’s credentials using the IRS’s Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers.
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Avoid anyone promising unusually large refunds or asking you to sign a blank return.
4. Identity Theft Refund Fraud
In this scam, criminals use your stolen personal information to file a tax return in your name and claim a refund — often before you’ve even filed your own.
What to Know:
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File your tax return as early as possible to reduce the window of opportunity.
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Consider using an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for added security.
5. “Verification” Text Messages
Scammers send text messages claiming your “IRS account needs verification” or “refund is on hold.” They include a link to a fake site that steals your personal and banking information.
What to Know:
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The IRS does not initiate contact by text message.
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Delete suspicious texts and report them to phishing@irs.gov.
How to Protect Yourself This Tax Season
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Never share personal or financial information via email, text, or phone unless you initiated the contact.
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Use secure, reputable tax preparation software or work with a verified professional.
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Shred old financial documents before disposal.
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Monitor your credit reports and bank accounts regularly for suspicious activity.
Final Thoughts
Tax scams can happen to anyone, but knowing the warning signs can help you stay ahead of criminals. Stay cautious, verify communications, and when in doubt, go directly to the IRS website for information.
If you’d like professional guidance with secure tax preparation this year, PSA CPA can help you file accurately, on time, and with confidence — without risking your personal information.
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