How to Know When the IRS Is Really Contacting You (and What to Do if You Think It’s Fraud)

Tax season can already feel stressful without worrying about scams and fake IRS contacts. Scammers often pose as the IRS to trick people into sharing personal or financial information. At Kamish and Associates, we want you to feel confident knowing how the IRS actually communicates and how to spot red flags.

How the IRS Typically Contacts You

The IRS is paper driven. In almost all situations, they start contact by mail through the U.S. Postal Service. If there is an issue with your tax return or account, you will receive an official letter first.

Phone calls or emails from the IRS would only occur if you are involved in an audit, and even then, those contacts follow formal written notices. The IRS does not initiate random phone calls or emails out of the blue.

Here’s what legitimate IRS contact usually looks like:

• Mail first: The IRS almost always sends an official letter before any other communication.https://www.irs.gov/help/how-to-know-its-the-irs

• Phone calls or emails: Only after written notice and typically during an active audit.

• In-person visits: Rare and always scheduled after multiple mailed notices.

The IRS will never:

• Demand immediate payment

• Ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards

• Threaten arrest, deportation, or law enforcement action

• Contact you through social media for personal or financial details

If you receive something that skips the paper trail, that is a major red flag.

How to Spot an IRS Impersonator

Scammers rely on urgency and fear to get quick responses. Be cautious if you see:

• Threats of arrest or legal action if you don’t pay immediately

• Requests for payment through gift cards or unusual methods

• Emails or texts with links that do not clearly come from irs.gov

• Unsolicited calls claiming you owe taxes without any mailed notice

When in doubt, do not respond. You can always verify your account directly through the IRS website or consult a trusted tax professional.

What to Do if You Suspect IRS Fraud

If something feels off, report it. Reporting scams helps protect you and others.

You can report suspected IRS fraud, phishing emails, scam phone calls, or other tax-related schemes directly to the IRS using this official link:https://www.irs.gov/help/report-fraud

The IRS reviews these reports and uses them to identify and stop ongoing scams.

Final Thoughts

The IRS relies on written communication. If you remember one thing, remember this: it’s always paper driven. Random calls, emails, or urgent payment demands are almost always scams.

If you’re unsure whether a notice is legitimate or need help responding, the team at Kamish and Associates is here to help you sort it out safely and confidently.