The most dangerous tax scams for 2026: IRS warns taxpayers to stay alert

The most dangerous tax scams for 2026, is part of a broader campaign carried out through the The Security Summit a partnership between the IRS, state tax agencies, and the nation's tax industry, is reinforced by outreach efforts tied to National "Slam the Scam" Day on March 5. These initiatives educate taxpayers about identity theft and other forms of fraud, particularly during tax season.

The IRS advises all taxpayers to remain vigilant throughout the year, as criminals will always seek new ways to obtain money, personally identifiable information, and data.

Be on alert for 7 key scams.

1. IRS Impersonation via Email and Text Messages ( Phishing + Smishing ).

Scammers send emails, direct messages, and text messages that appear to be from the IRS, often using alarming language and QR codes that direct taxpayers to fake IRS websites to “verify” accounts, enter personal information, or claim refunds. The IRS urges taxpayers not to click on links or open attachments in unexpected messages and to report suspicious emails, direct messages, and text messages related to the IRS. The IRS reported more than 600 social media impersonators during tax year 2025. As a reminder, never click on unsolicited communications claiming to be from the IRS, as they may surreptitiously install malware. These links can install malicious software, including ransomware, on the taxpayer's personal device, potentially preventing access to their files or personal information.

2. IRS impersonation by phone using AI technology (robot calls, voice imitation, spoofed caller ID).

Phone scams continue to evolve, including calls that use computer-generated tactics and caller ID spoofing to appear legitimate. The IRS reminds taxpayers that it typically communicates first by mail and does not leave urgent or threatening prerecorded messages, call demanding immediate payment, or threaten arrest. Taxpayers should not rely on AI generated answers to complex tax questions and should verify any calculations or information provided by artificial intelligence.

3. Fake Charities.

Scammers often exploit tragedies and disasters by creating fake charities to collect donations and personal information. The IRS is committed to preventing fraudulent nonprofits from taking advantage of American taxpayers. Taxpayers who donate money or goods to a charity can claim a deduction on their federal tax return if they itemize deductions, but charitable donations only count if they are made to a eligible charity (in English) and tax-exempt as recognized by the IRS.

4. Identity theft related to access to the IRS Online Account.

Criminals may attempt to use stolen personal information to gain unauthorized access to a taxpayer's IRS online account or impersonate "helpers" to collect sensitive information during the account creation process. Taxpayers should create their account directly at IRS.gov and not trust unsolicited third parties offering assistance. The IRS provides official guidance to help taxpayers set up and secure their accounts.

5. Fraudulent promotion of the “Tax credit for self-employment”.

Scammers are using misleading claims about a broad “self-employment tax credit” to encourage inaccurate returns and generate undue refunds. The IRS reminds taxpayers to rely on trustworthy sources and qualified tax professionals, not social media promotions, when determining credit eligibility. Many taxpayers are not eligible for these credits, and the IRS is closely reviewing claims filed under this provision, so taxpayers who file claims do so at their own risk.

6. Ghost Preparers.

A “ghost” preparer prepares a return but refuses to sign it and/or refuses to include a Tax Preparer Identification Number (PTIN). When a preparer refuses to sign or provide a PTIN, it is a major red flag; the taxpayer is legally responsible for what is filed. The IRS urges taxpayers to avoid preparers who will not sign the return and to choose reputable help. Taxpayers should never sign a blank or incomplete return. Instead, the IRS reminds taxpayers to hire a reputable preparer trusted tax professional

7. Inflated withholding scams (fabricated salary/withholding data).

Scammers encourage taxpayers to inflate withholding amounts (sometimes described as “other withholdings”) to fabricate a larger refund by reporting zero or little income on incorrect forms. The IRS may delay processing while it verifies wages and withholdings with third-party records. Inaccurate claims can result in penalties and enforcement actions. There are multiple variations of the inflated withholding credit scam, including those involving Forms W-2 and W-2G; Forms 1099-R, 1099-NEC, 1099-DIV, 1099-OID, and 1099-B; as well as the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend, Schedule K-1 with reported withholding, and unspecified source withholding credit claims.