By: Audry Lewis, Administrative Assistant

Scammers are becoming more and more crafty in ways that we may not have considered. Here are a few examples of scams to be on the lookout for according to the IRS.

SSN Scam and what to look for:

If you receive a call from someone claiming that they can suspend or cancel your SSN this is not true. The scammer is trying to scare people into returning voicemails and calls. Here are some things to keep in mind that the IRS will never do according to their website.

• Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a gift card or wire transfer.
• Ask a taxpayer to make a payment to a person or organization other than the U.S Treasury.
• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
• Demand taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.

Tax Scams that are continuing to happen:

• Phone Scams– these are still very common and if you get a voicemail from someone saying that if you do not call back and give the information, they are requesting that they will issue a warrant for your arrest. The IRS states on their website that they will not leave pre-recorded messages.
• Email Phishing Scams– The IRS will contact taxpayers mainly through mail so if you receive an email that appears to be from the IRS it is more than likely a phishing scam trying to get you release your sensitive information. If you believe to have received a phishing email you can always report it to the IRS using this email. phishing@irs.gov
• Things to be on the lookout for regarding a scam–
• Ask for payment information this can be in forms of your credit, debit cards or even gifts. The IRS usually will send you a bill in the mail if you owe.
• Request taxes be paid without giving you the opportunity to appeal or question the amount owed.
• Threaten to call law enforcement and have the taxpayer arrested.

Always trust your instincts and be cautious when someone is asking for your information. If you have any questions regarding scams or would like to talk with one of our experienced staff members, please let us know.