back taxes scam call | IRS phone scam

Have you ever received a phone call from someone claiming to be an IRS agent? They tell you that you owe back taxes and must pay immediately. The caller might sound professional, even intimidating, and could provide fake credentials or personal details about you. Don’t fall for it—it’s a scam.

Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones from this increasingly common fraud.

How the Back Taxes Scam Works

Scammers pose as IRS agents, claiming you owe money on your taxes. They demand immediate payment through wire transfers or even unusual methods like gift cards. These scammers are skilled at creating a sense of urgency and fear.

They may:

Fake the caller ID to show "IRS" or a similar official-sounding name.
Threaten arrest, deportation, or the suspension of your driver’s or business license.
Use personal details about you to make the call feel legitimate.
If you hesitate or question their demands, they’ll often become aggressive, hoping to pressure you into compliance.

Who Do Scammers Target?

While anyone can be targeted, scammers often prey on individuals they think are vulnerable, such as:

Seniors with cognitive challenges

People with hearing or vision impairments

Those who speak English as a second language

For example, scammers might use video relay services for hearing-impaired individuals or call in a person’s native language to build trust.

What the IRS Will Never Do

The key to avoiding these scams is understanding what the IRS will not do. The IRS will never:

Call you out of the blue without first sending a letter.
Demand immediate payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or over the phone.
Threaten to have you arrested or involve law enforcement.
Refuse to let you appeal your case.
Ask for debit or credit card information over the phone.
If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.

What to Do If You Owe Back Taxes

If you’re unsure whether you owe back taxes, follow these steps to confirm:

Visit Your IRS Account Online: Log in to check your tax balance and see any outstanding amounts.
Check Your Tax Records: Look at the tax year(s) in question to confirm what you owe.
Contact the IRS Directly: Call the IRS using the official number listed on their website, not the one given by the caller.
Remember, the IRS typically communicates through the mail, not by phone.

How to Protect Yourself

Verify the Caller: If someone claims to be from a legitimate business or organization, look them up on the Better Business Bureau’s website or the IRS’ list of trusted partners.

Stay Calm: Scammers rely on fear and urgency to make you act without thinking. Take a moment to verify their claims before responding.

Educate Others: Share this information with friends and family, especially those who might be more vulnerable to these tactics.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but you don’t have to fall victim to their tricks. By understanding how these scams work and knowing how to spot red flags, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the IRS. Remember: the best defense against scams is staying informed.

Stay safe, and spread the word!