Category: Taxes Made Simple → Notices & Collections
⚠️ SCAM ALERT: The IRS will never call, text, or email you to demand immediate payment, request gift cards, or threaten arrest. These are always scams.
The IRS begins all communication through regular U.S. mail. Any phone calls, emails, or text messages demanding payment are not legitimate unless you were already notified by mail.
🧠 What the IRS Will Never Do
- ❌ Call or text to demand immediate payment
- ❌ Ask for your SSN, credit card, or bank info by phone
- ❌ Require you to pay using gift cards or wire transfers
- ❌ Threaten police arrest or legal action
- ❌ Skip your right to appeal or review your tax issue
📱 Real Scam Examples
Scammers use alarming language and spoof caller IDs to trick you. Here are examples of scam messages our members have received:
🚨 Scam Text Message Example:
IRS ALERT: Your taxes are overdue. Pay immediately or face legal action.
Resolve now: https://payirs-secureportal.com
🚨 Scam Voicemail Example:
"This is Officer Mike from the IRS. You owe $3,870 in unpaid taxes.
If you do not call us back immediately at 1-888-xxx-xxxx,
we will issue an arrest warrant under your name."
If you receive anything like this: do not respond, do not click links, and never send money.
✅ What to Do If You’re Targeted
- 📞 Hang up or delete the message
- 🛑 Don’t give out any personal or financial info
- 📧 Forward texts or emails to phishing@irs.gov
- 🛂 Report the call to TIGTA and the FTC
🔍 When the IRS May Actually Call You
There are very rare exceptions where an IRS agent may call you—but only after mailing several notices. These include:
- You're being audited
- You owe large overdue taxes
- You’re under investigation for tax fraud
You’ll always receive IRS letters first, with clear case numbers and the ability to call back or appeal.
👨💼 Gbooks Can Help You Verify Real vs. Fake
If you’re unsure whether a message is real or fake, contact our team. We’ll:
- Check the legitimacy of any IRS letter, call, or email
- Call the IRS on your behalf with proper authorization
- Help you file Form 8821 to grant us permission to speak with the IRS for you
🔐 Don’t Have an IRS Account?
Creating a secure IRS.gov account helps you verify tax balances, view transcripts, and detect suspicious activity under your Social Security Number.
📎 Learn how to set it up:
👉 How to Set Up Your IRS.gov Account
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