IRS Warns Taxpayers About Common Scams in the 2026 Filing Season
Frank Bisignano, the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, recently spoke on “Morning with Maria” about the record tax refunds, tax breaks for families and seniors, and the federal government’s efforts against fraud as Tax Day approaches.
As part of its annual alert, the IRS has published its “Dirty Dozen” list for the 2026 tax season, highlighting various scams that target taxpayers, businesses, and tax professionals, especially identity theft and other fraudulent activities. Bisignano emphasized the importance of vigilance, particularly on Slam the Scam Day, noting that scammers continuously adapt their strategies to exploit unsuspecting taxpayers. He mentioned, “For over two decades, the IRS has used the Dirty Dozen to warn taxpayers about emerging scams.”
How to Steer Clear of Tax Fraud This Season
This year’s Dirty Dozen list features an important reminder: taxpayers should stay alert all year round, as criminals continuously seek ways to steal money and personal information.
1) IRS Impersonation Scams via Email and Text
Scammers often send emails or texts posing as the IRS, using alarming language or QR codes that lead to counterfeit websites. These fraudulent messages usually urge recipients to validate their accounts or provide personal details. The IRS advises against clicking on links in such unsolicited messages, which can lead to harmful software infecting personal devices.
2) Phone Scams Using AI
Newer phone scams employ AI to imitate IRS communications, with manipulated caller IDs to sound credible. Taxpayers are reminded that the IRS typically initiates contact via mail and will never leave threatening pre-recorded messages demanding immediate payment or threats of arrest.
3) Fake Charity Scams
In times of crisis, fraudsters may exploit the situation by setting up illegitimate charities to solicit donations and personal information. Taxpayers should ensure that their donations go to qualified tax-exempt organizations to claim deductions on their returns.
4) Misinformation from Social Media
Viral posts that promote dubious “tax hacks” can mislead taxpayers, causing false claims and potential repercussions like refund delays or audits. The IRS emphasizes that taxpayers can face severe penalties for knowingly filing fraudulent returns.
5) Identity Theft Targeting IRS Online Accounts
Criminals sometimes steal personal information to access IRS accounts or pose as individuals collecting information. The IRS recommends that taxpayers create accounts directly on its official site without relying on unsolicited offers from others.
6) Fraudulent Claims of Undistributed Long-term Capital Gains
There has been a spike in misuse of Form 2439, which allows certain shareholders to request refunds of undistributed taxes. The IRS has discovered schemes involving entities that do not bona fide exist or fraudulent claims linked to reputable organizations.
7) Misleading Self-Employment Tax Credit Promotions
Some fraudulent claims concerning a so-called “self-employment tax credit” urge taxpayers to submit improper returns, which can produce unwarranted refunds. Taxpayers should be cautious, as many may not qualify for these credits.
8) Ghost Preparers
Ghost preparers assist in tax filings but refuse to sign or provide their identification numbers, putting taxpayers in a risky position. The IRS strongly advises against using such preparers.
9) Charitable Donation Schemes Without Cash
Some scams involve inflated valuations of non-cash donations, with promoters falsely claiming significant tax benefits. The IRS warns against submitting returns with falsified information.
10) Excessive Withholding Tax Systems
Some fraudsters encourage taxpayers to exaggerate their withholdings to fabricate larger refunds, potentially leading to penalties and delays in processing returns.
11) Phishing and Malware Targeting Tax Professionals
Tax professionals encounter new client requests that harbor malicious links or attachments seeking to infiltrate their systems. Caution is urged to safeguard sensitive data.
12) Misleading Offers in Compromise
The IRS offers legitimate programs to help taxpayers resolve debts, yet some scammers exploit the situation, overpromising results and charging high fees. It’s advised to utilize official IRS resources to check on eligibility safely.
