Tax Season Aftermath: Scams to Watch Out for Post-Filing
Tax season is finally over, and you’ve filed your returns—phew! But before you kick back and relax, there’s something you need to know: scammers aren’t done with you yet. In fact, the weeks and months after tax season are prime time for fraudsters to strike. They’re out there, lurking with tricks like refund fraud, fake IRS calls, and phishing emails, all designed to steal your hard-earned money or sensitive personal information. In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through the most common post-tax season scams, how to spot them, and what to do if something feels off. With over 1500 words of expert advice, you’ll be equipped to protect your wallet and your peace of mind.
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Why Scammers Love the Post-Tax Season
You might think that once you’ve filed your taxes, you’re in the clear. But scammers see the post-tax season as a golden opportunity. Why? Because people are still on high alert about their finances, waiting for refunds, or dealing with lingering tax-related stress. This makes it easier for fraudsters to slip in with convincing schemes that prey on your expectations or fears.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), tax-related scams spike by nearly 30% in the months following tax season. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also warns that fraudsters often impersonate them, using tactics like fake refund offers or threats of legal action to trick you into handing over money or personal data. The emotional rollercoaster of tax season—relief, anxiety, or anticipation—can cloud your judgment, making you more vulnerable to these scams.
But don’t worry. By understanding how these scams work and staying vigilant, you can outsmart the fraudsters and keep your finances secure.
Common Post-Tax Season Scams to Watch Out For
Scammers are crafty, and their tactics evolve constantly. Here are the three most prevalent scams you’re likely to encounter after filing your taxes:
1. Refund Fraud: The Fake Windfall
Who doesn’t love the idea of a surprise tax refund? Scammers know this and use it to their advantage. In refund fraud, fraudsters might claim that you’re owed an additional refund or that there was an error in your filing that entitles you to more money. They’ll often ask for your bank details to “deposit” the refund or request a small “processing fee” to release the funds.
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How It Works: You might receive an email, text, or even a phone call from someone posing as an IRS agent or a tax professional. They’ll say something like, “Good news! We’ve reviewed your return and found you’re eligible for an extra $500 refund.” But to get it, they need your bank account information or a payment to cover “taxes” on the refund. Once you provide the details or send the money, they disappear, and so does your cash.
Real-Life Example: In 2023, a retiree from Florida received a call from a “tax consultant” offering to help her claim a $1,000 refund she was “owed.” She paid $200 in “fees” via a gift card, only to realize later that the IRS never asks for gift card payments. The scammer was long gone, and she was out $200.
How to Spot It:
- Unsolicited Offers: The IRS doesn’t initiate contact via phone, email, or text about refunds. If you didn’t request it, it’s probably a scam.
- Requests for Fees: Legitimate refunds don’t require upfront payments. Be wary of anyone asking for money to “unlock” your refund.
- Unusual Payment Methods: Gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency? That’s a scammer’s playground. The IRS only accepts standard payment methods.
2. Fake IRS Calls: The Threat of Legal Action
One of the most intimidating scams is the fake IRS call. Scammers impersonate IRS agents, often using aggressive language to scare you into thinking you owe back taxes or face immediate arrest. They might even spoof the IRS’s phone number to make it look legitimate.
How It Works: The caller might say, “This is the IRS. You owe $2,000 in unpaid taxes, and if you don’t pay now, we’ll send the police to arrest you.” They’ll demand immediate payment via wire transfer or prepaid debit card. The pressure is intense, and the fear of legal trouble can push even the savviest people into compliance.
Real-Life Example: A small business owner in California received a call from someone claiming to be an IRS agent. The caller said he owed $5,000 in back taxes and threatened to seize his assets if he didn’t pay immediately. Panicked, he wired the money—only to find out later that the IRS had no record of the debt.
How to Spot It:
- Threats of Arrest: The IRS never threatens arrest over the phone. They communicate primarily through mail.
- Demands for Immediate Payment: The IRS gives you time to resolve issues and offers payment plans. They don’t demand instant payment.
- Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers can make it look like the call is from the IRS. If in doubt, hang up and call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
3. Phishing Emails: The Digital Deception
Phishing emails are a year-round threat, but they ramp up after tax season. These emails often look like they’re from the IRS or a tax software company, urging you to click a link or download an attachment to “verify” your information or claim a refund.
How It Works: You might receive an email with a subject line like “Action Required: Verify Your Tax Return” or “Your Refund Status.” The email will contain a link that, when clicked, takes you to a fake IRS website designed to steal your login credentials, Social Security number, or bank details. Some emails even contain malware that infects your device when you open an attachment.
Real-Life Example: A taxpayer in New York received an email claiming to be from TurboTax, stating there was an issue with her return. She clicked the link and entered her login information, only to have her account hacked and her refund redirected to a scammer’s bank account.
How to Spot It:
- Check the Sender’s Email: Hover over the sender’s address (don’t click!) to see if it’s from an official IRS domain. The IRS uses “@irs.gov”—anything else is suspect.
- Look for Typos: Poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or awkward phrasing are common in scam emails.
- Don’t Click Links: Instead, go directly to the IRS website or your tax software’s official site to check for alerts.
- Be Skeptical of Attachments: The IRS doesn’t send unsolicited attachments. If you get one, don’t open it.
How to Protect Your Tax Information
Your tax information is a goldmine for scammers—it includes your Social Security number, bank details, and more. Here’s how to keep it safe:
1. Secure Your Digital Footprint
- Use Strong Passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for your tax software and financial accounts. Consider using a password manager.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for scammers to access your accounts.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Don’t access sensitive information on unsecured networks. If you must, use a VPN.
2. Verify All Communications
- Check IRS Correspondence: The IRS primarily communicates via mail. If you receive a call or email, verify it by contacting the IRS directly.
- Look for Official Logos and Language: Scammers often mimic IRS branding, but small details—like incorrect logos or phrasing—can give them away.
3. Monitor Your Accounts
- Check Your Bank Statements: Regularly review your accounts for unauthorized transactions.
- Review Your Credit Report: Look for signs of identity theft, like new accounts you didn’t open. You can get a free report annually from AnnualCreditReport.com.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a tax scam, act fast:
- Report It to the IRS: File a complaint with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at tigta.gov.
- Contact Your Bank: If you provided financial information, alert your bank to potential fraud.
- Monitor Your Credit: Place a fraud alert or freeze your credit to prevent further damage.
- File an FTC Complaint: Report the scam at ftc.gov/complaint to help authorities track fraud trends.
Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
Tax season might be over, but the threat of scams lingers. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your finances and personal information from fraudsters. Remember: the IRS will never call you out of the blue to demand payment or threaten arrest. If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts, verify everything, and don’t let scammers ruin your post-tax season peace.
Share this guide with friends and family to help them stay scam-free, too. For more tips on avoiding fraud, sign up for our newsletter or visit our Scam Hub. Here’s to a safe and secure year ahead!
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Stay sharp, stay safe, and enjoy the relief of a scam-free tax season aftermath!
