The IRS has released its annual list of “Dirty Dozen” tax scams, which emphasizes aggressive and evolving schemes related to COVID-19 tax relief, including Economic Impact Payments, according to www.irs.gov.
“Tax scams tend to rise during tax season or during times of crisis, and scam artists are using the pandemic to try stealing money and information from honest taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “The IRS provides the Dirty Dozen list to help raise awareness about common scams that fraudsters use to target people.”
Taxpayers are encouraged to review the list and look out for these scams during the year. Taxpayers also should remember they are legally responsible for what is on their tax return—even if it is prepared by someone else—and should choose a reputable tax preparer.
This year’s “Dirty Dozen” scams include phishing; fake charities; threatening impersonator phone calls; social media scams; Economic Impact Payment or refund theft; senior fraud; scams targeting non-English speakers; unscrupulous return preparers; Offer in Compromise mills; fake payments with repayment demands; payroll and human resources scams; and ransomware.
Learn more about how to protect yourself from the “Dirty Dozen” tax scams.
