The Tax Scams Targeting Americans Right Now

Why Tax Scams Increase During Filing Season

Tax season creates a perfect environment for fraud. People are sharing sensitive information, making payments, and responding to deadlines. Scammers know this and increase their activity accordingly.

Research shows nearly 1 in 4 Americans has fallen victim to a tax scam, with victims losing an average of more than $1,000 per incident. These scams do not only affect individuals—businesses are increasingly targeted through payroll tax fraud, ACH scams, and IRS impersonation attempts aimed at company leadership and accounting teams.

Common Tax Scams to Watch For

Tax‑related scams continue to evolve, often using technology to appear more legitimate. Here are the most common schemes seen during tax season.

IRS Impersonation Scams (Including AI‑Driven Calls)

One of the most common scams involves criminals pretending to be the IRS. These scams may arrive as phone calls, emails, texts, or even voice messages that sound official.

In their annual “Dirty Dozen Tax Scams for 2026,” the IRS identified AI‑enabled IRS impersonation as one of the top threats. Scammers now use realistic voice technology, spoofed phone numbers, and professional language to pressure victims into acting quickly. You can view all 12 top scam examples on their website.

Important reminder: The IRS generally contacts taxpayers by mail first, not through unsolicited calls, emails, or texts.

Scam Phone Calls and Robocalls

Scam calls spike dramatically during tax season. Many claim you owe back taxes, have an issue with your filing, or must act immediately to avoid penalties or arrest.

For businesses, these calls often target: owners or executives, accounting and payroll teams, and employees authorized to move money

Phishing Messages Offering Tax Help, Refunds, or Asking for Further Verification

Emails and texts offering tax assistance, refund verification, personal information verification, or “urgent” IRS updates are other common tactics. These messages often include links or attachments that steal login credentials or install malware.

Requests to Pay Taxes Using Cryptocurrency or Gift Cards

Scammers may insist that taxes must be paid using cryptocurrency, prepaid cards, wire transfers, or gift cards. These payment methods are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to recover.

The IRS does not accept payment through these methods.

How the IRS Actually Communicates

Knowing what legitimate IRS contact looks like is one of the best ways to avoid fraud.

The IRS:

• Does not initiate contact by email, text, or social media
• Typically contacts taxpayers by mailed letter first
• Will never demand immediate payment or threaten arrest
• Will never request payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or peer‑to‑peer apps

If you receive a message that contradicts these rules, assume it is fraudulent and verify independently.

Red Flags That Signal a Tax Scam

Most tax scams share common warning signs. Be cautious if a message includes:

• Intense urgency or deadlines
• Threats of arrest, fines, or legal action
• Pressure to keep the request secret
• Emotional manipulation, guilt, or fear
• Requests for credentials, account numbers, or payment information

Stay Secure and Safe

Cybersecurity and fraud prevention should be a core focus for any financial institution, especially during higher‑risk periods like tax season. Many banks offer tools, resources, and guidance designed to help customers protect their personal and business accounts. Taking time to review your bank’s fraud‑prevention information can help you better understand common scams and what safeguards are in place.

If something seems suspicious or you notice unusual account activity, reach out to your financial institution right away. Staying informed, knowing where to find reliable guidance, and acting quickly are some of the most effective ways to protect your finances year‑round.