The 3 Most Common Tax Scams Right Now

The Victory Tax Brief | Issue #23

Author

Parham Khorsandi
March 05, 2026

Tax season already comes with enough stress. Unfortunately, it also brings something else: A spike in tax-related scams.

Every year, scammers become more sophisticated — impersonating the IRS, stealing Social Security numbers, and even posing as legitimate tax preparers. The goal is simple: create fear, urgency, and confusion so you hand over money or personal information.

Here’s what you need to know to stay protected.

At Victory Tax Lawyers, we help clients navigate complex tax issues, from audits and back taxes to liens and fraud investigations.

If you’re unsure whether you need expert help, call (800) 883‑8301 for a free consultation.

🚨 The 3 Most Common Tax Scams Right Now

1. Tax Identity Theft

This happens in two primary ways:

  • Someone files a tax return in your name to steal your refund.

  • Someone uses your Social Security number for employment, causing the IRS to believe you earned income you never received.

You may only discover this when your legitimate return is rejected — or when you receive a notice claiming you owe taxes on “phantom” wages.

How to protect yourself:

  • File your tax return as early as possible.

  • Read all IRS mail carefully.

  • Consider applying for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to prevent fraudulent filings.

2. IRS Imposter Scams

Scammers call, text, email, or message you claiming to be the IRS. They may threaten arrest, demand immediate payment, or promise a “refund” if you click a link and provide personal details.

Red flags include:

  • Urgent threats of police action

  • Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

  • Messages sent through email, text, or social media

The IRS does not initiate contact through text messages, social media, or email to request personal or financial information.

If it feels urgent and threatening, that’s often the point.

3. The “Ghost Preparer”

This scam targets taxpayers looking for help. A fraudulent preparer collects large upfront fees, promises an unusually high refund, and then disappears without signing or filing the return.

Some warning signs:

  • Refusal to provide a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)

  • Asking you to sign a blank return

  • Directing your refund into their bank account

  • Demanding full payment before work is completed

Always review your return before it is filed and verify that direct deposit details point to your account.

🛡 Prevention Is Powerful — But Legal Protection Matters Too

Most tax scams are financial crimes, not tax crimes committed by the victim. However, if a scam results in incorrect filings, unpaid taxes, or IRS notices in your name, you must respond properly to avoid penalties.

Ignoring IRS correspondence  (even if triggered by fraud)  can lead to compounding issues.

At Victory Tax Lawyers, we help taxpayers untangle identity theft issues, respond to IRS notices correctly, and protect their financial future.

📞 If you suspect a tax scam has affected you, call (800) 883-8301 for a confidential consultation before the situation escalates.

Staying informed is your first defense. Acting early is your strongest one.