How To Recognize Tax Scams This Tax Season

The 2025 federal tax season begins January 27th, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) promises historic improvements to make filing easier for taxpayers. However, they also want the public to be alert for scammers, who become increasingly active at this time of year.

Florida tax attorney Ronald Cutler is a certified public accountant and a former FBI special agent with over 50 years of experience in tax matters. He explains common tax scams and how to protect yourself this season.

IRS Warns Taxpayers To Be Alert For Tax Scams When Filing 2024 Returns

Tax scams are increasingly common during tax season. They target unsuspecting taxpayers, robbing them of their money and personal information. In response to the threat, the Internal Revenue Service joined state agencies and the tax industry to form the Coalition Against Scam and Scheme Threats (CASST) in August 2024. The goal is to reduce threats, respond faster, and make the public more aware of the risks.

Scammers often impersonate tax officials or set up shady tax preparation services, targeting tax refunds and misleading taxpayers about credits and payments for their own gain. The IRS advises that the following are among the most common tax scams to be alert for during the 2025 season:

• Phishing emails in which scammers claim to be tax agents;
• Fake websites designed to steal your personal, financial, or tax information;
• Phone scams, which threaten lawsuits or other adverse actions unless you make immediate payment;
• Fraudulent tax preparers, who take your money and use your personal information to drain your bank accounts or steal your identity.

How to Protect Against Scammers This Tax Season

Being alert to the types of scams that are out there is the first step in protecting yourself, your money, and your personal information. To avoid being the victim of tax scams, follow these additional tips:

• Verify any communications from the IRS or anyone claiming to be an agent;
• Keep in mind that IRS agents do not contact taxpayers via text, email, or social media;
• File your taxes early, which reduces the risk of someone stealing your refund;
• Before working with a preparer, verify their credentials with the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers;
• Beware of any threats or urgent demands for money through prepaid debit cards, gift cards, or wire transfers.

If you are the victim of a tax scam, report the incident and document all losses. Under federal laws and the Florida Statutes, victims of tax scams may be entitled to damages, provided officials can catch the scammer.

Request A Consultation Today With Our Experienced Florida Tax Attorney

Tax scams are common at this time of year, and scammers use various tactics to steal your money and identity. If you are targeted or need help navigating tax-related issues, contact Ronald Cutler, P.A.

With over 50 years of experience, we address your concerns and provide the trusted legal guidance you need when dealing with local, state, or federal tax officials. Request a consultation today with our Florida tax attorney.

Sources:

irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-jan-27-start-to-2025-tax-filing-season

irs.gov/newsroom/statements-of-support-from-leading-members-of-the-nations-tax-community-for-coalition-against-scam-and-scheme-threats-task-force

irs.gov/help/tax-scams/recognize-tax-scams-and-fraud

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0200-0299/0212/Sections/0212.12.html#:~:text=775.083.,other%20penalty%20provided%20by%20law.