INDIANAPOLIS — The Internal Revenue Service says taxpayers are getting scammed this tax season by people claiming to be from the IRS.
Scammers are calling, texting, emailing, and sending social media messages claiming to be with the IRS.
Typically, they say you owe the IRS money and demand you pay up or face jail time.
The IRS says they will never threaten you, and they won’t ask for unusual payment forms like iTunes gift cards or a wire transfer.
Keep in mind, phone numbers can be spoofed to look like they’re coming from the IRS.
Stacy Engle, an IRS spokesperson based in Indianapolis, says the IRS will never, text, email or send you a Facebook message.
“Generally, initial contact by the IRS is from notice or letter through the United States Postal Service,” said Engle. “In order to verify if you have a balance due, make sure to open all the letters you receive from the IRS. The letter will tell you that you have a balance, and they're warning you we may call you or show up."
Some scammers may also claim they have your tax refund, but the IRS says they will never call you out of the blue about getting your money.
If you’re not sure if you owe money, go to an IRS walk-in center or call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
How to report an IRS impersonator:
- Report the call by visiting the Hotline page of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and using an IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or by calling 800-366-4484.
- Report the number to phishing@irs.gov and put "IRS Phone Scam" in the subject line.
- Forms to report fraud are available on the Hotline page of Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration website [lnks.gd]. Taxpayers just click the appropriate option under “IRS Scams and Fraud” and follow the instructions.
The IRS says they will never:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
- Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
- Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
- Call unexpectedly about a tax refund.
Have you been a victim of a scam? Contact WRTV Investigates at kara.kenney@wrtv.com.
-
Silver Alert issued for missing 70-year-old from New Whiteland
Gadshian Werner, 70, is described as a white male, 5 feet 10 inches tall, 165 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes.
Indianapolis Boys & Girls Clubs extend hours to combat teen violence
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis are launching their 132nd year of violence reduction programming with extended hours and free registration for teens as the new school year begins.
Johnson County Community Foundation awards nonprofit organizations
The Johnson County Community Foundation awarded $162,000 to help nonprofit organizations with transportation and other support.
Duke Energy rate payers could see another rate hike in the near future
The increase stems from an approved rate increase last year, and bills could climb again if a new proposal is approved.
