Scammers often pretend to be from the IRS, because they know people worry about taxes. Here is how to protect yourself.

Warning signs

• A caller threatens you with immediate arrest or deportation
• You are told to pay with a gift card, wire transfer or cryptocurrency
• An unexpected email or text asks you to click a link
• Someone pressures you to act right away and not to talk to anyone
• A message offers a refund in exchange for your personal information

How the IRS usually contacts you

The IRS generally starts by mailing a letter. It generally does not begin contact about a tax debt by email, text or social media.

What to do

Do not click links or give out information. Hang up, and check your account on the official website, IRS.gov. If you are unsure about a letter, you can also contact a tax professional.

Report it

You can report phishing to the IRS at phishing@irs.gov and report phone scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

Protect yourself in advance

Consider getting an IRS Identity Protection PIN, use strong passwords and be careful when choosing who prepares your return.

Real IRS letter?

If it is real, do not ignore it. A CPA can help you understand what it means and how to respond.

Have questions about your situation? Tax rules change and every situation is different, so please talk with a professional before acting on general information. Call Fajardo & Associates at 407-720-7220 to make an appointment.