IRS warning – Phone scam

The IRS has posted a warning to the public about a phone scam.  A caller will say that he is from the IRS and that you owe back taxes.  He will say that you need to pay immediately with a pre-paid debit card or wire transfer or risk losing your driver’s license or being arrested.

These callers will state IRS badge numbers, the caller ID will say IRS, and they may even know your social security number or just the last four digits.  They may follow up with an e-mail or another call pretending to be the police.  Once again the caller ID will name a police department.

If the IRS has a problem with you owing taxes, they will contact you by mail, not the telephone.  They will not ask for pre-paid debit cards , wire transfers or credit card numbers over the phone.

If you get a suspicious call from someone claiming to be the IRS, the IRS suggests hanging up and calling them directly at 800-829-1040.  If you really owe back taxes, you will be assured that you are speaking with real IRS workers who can help you with your payment questions.

If you don’t owe taxes, you might like to make a report with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484 or with the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov, putting IRS Telephone Scam in the comment line.

Remember the IRS will not ask for personal financial information by e-mail or texting either.  Please protect yourselves and be wise.

Now, if you do owe back taxes and would like help dealing with the IRS, we can help you!

Call Todd Courser 810-245-0813.