Tax season is here, and while most of us are busy crunching numbers and dreaming about refunds, scammers are out there plotting their next move. These fraudsters are crafty, but don’t worry—this blog will arm you with everything you need to stay one step ahead. Let’s break down the wild world of tax scams, so you can file with confidence and keep your hard-earned money safe.

The Tax Scam Hall of Shame

Here’s a lineup of the biggest scams you need to watch out for this tax season. Spoiler alert: these fraudsters are good at what they do, but we’re better.

1. Charity Impersonators: The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Scammers pose as charities, tugging at your heartstrings to steal your money. They might ask for “donations” via phone, email, or even social media.

How to Outsmart Them: Always verify a charity’s legitimacy through tools like the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.

2. COVID-19 Pandemic Schemes

The pandemic may be easing, but scammers are still cashing in. They might promise fake stimulus payments, COVID-related tax credits, or phony relief programs.

How to Outsmart Them: The IRS won’t email or text you about stimulus payments or refunds. Don’t click on links—ever.

3. Credits and Refunds Misinformation

“Claim this HUGE tax credit now!” Sound familiar? Scammers will exaggerate or invent tax credits to lure you into sharing personal info or paying for “services.”

How to Outsmart Them: Know what credits you qualify for, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC). When in doubt, ask a trusted tax professional (like us at TaxZinger!).

4. Disaster Fraud: Adding Insult to Injury

After natural disasters, scammers prey on those affected by offering fake relief or tax help.

How to Outsmart Them: Only trust organizations listed on IRS.gov or government disaster recovery websites.

5. Dishonest Tax Preparers: The Wolves Among Us

Not all tax preparers are saints. Some inflate your refund to boost their fees or steal your personal information outright.

How to Outsmart Them: Verify your preparer is legit with a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). And remember—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

6. Email and Text Message Impersonators

“Urgent! Your tax account has been compromised. Click here to fix it!” Sound sketchy? It is. Scammers send emails or texts pretending to be the IRS, hoping you’ll click on a malicious link.

How to Outsmart Them: The IRS doesn’t text or email. Forward phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov and delete them.

7. Social Media Tax Advice and Scams

TikTok tax tips might be trendy, but scammers and bad advice are everywhere online. They’ll share fake hacks, like claiming fake dependents or filing as “Head of Household” when you don’t qualify.

How to Outsmart Them: Stick to advice from certified professionals (or, better yet, TaxZinger!).

8. Unemployment Claims Identity Theft

Scammers file unemployment claims using stolen identities, leaving you with a tax nightmare.

How to Outsmart Them: If you get a Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits you didn’t receive, contact your state unemployment agency and file Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) with the IRS.

9. W-2 Form Fraud

In this classic scam, fraudsters steal W-2 forms to file fake tax returns in your name.

How to Outsmart Them: Keep your W-2 forms secure and monitor your IRS account for suspicious activity.

How to Stay Scam-Savvy This Tax Season

Scammers are getting smarter, but you can outsmart them with these tips:

• Verify Everything: Whether it’s an email, call, or social media message, always confirm its legitimacy through IRS.gov or a trusted source.
• Guard Your Info: Keep your Social Security Number and personal details as secret as your Netflix password.
• Get an IP PIN: This six-digit code adds a layer of protection when filing your taxes. You can get one from the IRS here.

TaxZinger Has Your Back

At TaxZinger, we’re not just about crunching numbers—we’re about protecting you from scams and helping you file with confidence. Whether you’re confused about a suspicious email or need help navigating tax credits, we’ve got your back.

Got questions? Want help with your taxes? Contact us today! Let’s make sure your tax season is scam-free and stress-free.