IRS Unveils 'Dirty Dozen' Tax Scams for 2025: Taxpayers Urged to Stay Vigilant
Washington, D.C. – March 13, 2025 – The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released its annual "Dirty Dozen" list, highlighting the top tax scams targeting taxpayers in 2025. This year's list underscores the importance of remaining cautious and informed during tax season to protect personal and financial information.
Key Scams Identified:
Phishing and Smishing: Taxpayers receive unsolicited emails and text messages claiming to be from the IRS, luring them into providing sensitive information or clicking malicious links. These communications often promise refunds or threaten legal action.
Social Media Scams: Misinformation on platforms like TikTok is misleading taxpayers into claiming false credits or deductions, leading to potential penalties and delayed refunds.
IRS Impersonation: Scammers pose as IRS agents, threatening victims with arrest or asset seizure unless immediate payment is made, often through untraceable methods like gift cards.
Ghost Tax Preparers: Unethical tax preparers refuse to sign the returns they prepare, leaving taxpayers responsible for inaccuracies and potential fraud.
Fake Charities: Fraudulent organizations solicit donations, especially during times of crisis, exploiting taxpayers' generosity and offering bogus tax deductions.
False Fuel Tax Credit Claims: Promoters are misleading taxpayers into erroneously claiming the Fuel Tax Credit, which is typically reserved for off-highway business use, not personal vehicles.
Protective Measures:
Verify Communications: The IRS will never initiate contact regarding tax issues via email, text, or social media. Official correspondence is conducted through mail.
Consult Reputable Professionals: Seek advice from trusted tax professionals, especially when confronted with unfamiliar tax strategies or credits.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a potential scam, please report it to the IRS and relevant authorities to help protect others.
By staying informed and exercising caution, taxpayers can safeguard against these prevalent scams during the 2025 tax season.