RISE ABOVE THE SCAMS: EMPOWER YOURSELF WITH TRUTH, CONFIDENCE, AND CONTROL

THE PRESS CENTER | BREAKING NEWS | IRS

SEPT. 13, 2025

You deserve clarity. You deserve protection. And you deserve the confidence that comes from knowing you are making informed, empowered financial decisions. Today’s message is more than a warning—it’s a reminder of your strength, your awareness, and your ability to stay one step ahead.

The IRS has announced a significant rise in deceptive tax schemes circulating across social media. These scams are designed to mislead hardworking taxpayers by promoting improper use of credits—such as the Fuel Tax Credit and the Sick and Family Leave Credit—that many people simply do not qualify for. When misinformation spreads, confusion follows, and thousands have already faced denied refunds and unexpected penalties because of it.

Since 2022, misleading posts and individuals pretending to be tax experts have fueled a surge in inaccurate refund claims. Many of these posts falsely imply that everyone qualifies for certain credits, even though some apply only to self‑employed individuals or specific types of businesses. To help taxpayers stay informed, the IRS maintains a clear, accessible list of frivolous tax positions on IRS.gov—positions that can lead to costly penalties if used.

James Clifford, Director of Return Integrity and Compliance Services at the IRS, emphasized the seriousness of these schemes, noting that following bad advice can result in rejected claims and a $5,000 penalty, in addition to other consequences. To date, more than 32,000 penalties have been issued, totaling over $162 million.

But here’s the empowering truth: You have the ability to protect yourself. You have the power to stay informed. You are capable, resourceful, and fully equipped to make wise financial choices.

Recognize the Red Flags — You Are Smarter Than the Scam

Stay alert when you encounter:

• Claims that everyone qualifies for specific tax credits
• Promises of fast, effortless refunds with little or no documentation
• Instructions to file amended returns without confirming eligibility
• Advice encouraging you to ignore IRS notices or respond dishonestly

Your intuition matters. Trust it.

Understand the Consequences — Knowledge Is Your Shield

Falling for a scam can lead to:

• Delayed or denied refunds
• A $5,000 civil penalty for filing a frivolous return
• Additional IRS review, scrutiny, or enforcement actions

Awareness is your first line of defense—and you already have it.

If You’ve Been Misled — You Can Correct It Today

You are not stuck. You are not powerless. You can take action right now:

• File an amended return using Form 1040‑X as soon as possible
• Respond promptly and honestly to any IRS correspondence
• Seek guidance from a trusted tax professional or visit IRS.gov for accurate information

If you suspect a scam, report it by emailing phishing@irs.gov or contacting the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Your voice matters, and your action protects others too.

Stay Informed — Stay Empowered

The IRS encourages all taxpayers to verify tax advice through credible, authoritative sources. Social media can be helpful, but it should never be your only source of financial guidance.

For ongoing updates, alerts, and verified information, visit the Tax Scams page on IRS.gov or follow @IRStaxsecurity on X (formerly Twitter).

You are capable. You are informed. You are in control. And every step you take toward clarity strengthens your financial future.

Source: IRS Newsroom (IRS.gov)