BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The 2022 tax season has begun and the IRS urges extra caution for taxpayers prior to beginning their filing process. Whether you choose to file your taxes independently or hire a tax professional, the IRS encourages all taxpayers to be alert for signs of things such as fraud. Not only by mail but by phone as well.
IRS spokesman Raphael Tulino said that while criminal activity is at its peak during the beginning stages of tax filing season it’s important to ensure that the tax preparer you select is not only the right fit for you and your family but is legitimate.
“Scams and schemes tend to proliferate especially around tax filing season right around now. There’s many variations that have taken place throughout the years certainly, but if you’re getting a random phone call, email, text, initiating contact, and social media from the IRS, chances are it’s not the IRS. It’s a scammer using the IRS as a lure and so keep your intent out and be careful out there.”
The IRS will never:
- Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
- Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
- Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
- Call unexpectedly about a tax refund.
Taxpayers…
