Stay informed — don’t fall victim to scams and fraud.
Don’t let scammers cost you money this tax season and beyond
Tax season can be overwhelming. Scammers may take advantage by promising a big tax refund or threatening you. Don’t be fooled by their schemes.
Common tax scams and frauds to look out for:
A larger-than-expected return
Watch out for offers of large tax refunds because they may not be legitimate. Use trusted sources like irs.gov or a licensed tax preparer to calculate your return.
Disaster relief fraud
Assistance exists for those affected by disasters, but be careful when accepting help. Be sure to get your information from verified sources like the IRS and the Tax-Exempt Organization Search at the irs.gov.
Tax preparer fraud
Using a tax preparer can save you time and energy but be alert. Use a reputable tax professional with a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Never sign a blank tax form. Review your return in full before authorizing the preparer to file it and always get a copy for your records.
Digital communications scams (social media, texts and emails)
Free bad advice is everywhere! Be careful when clicking links on social media, in emails or text messages as they can put your device at risk. Always verify recipients’ contact information before sending money to anyone.
Unexpected tax bill
The IRS will never call you to demand a payment. It’s especially suspect if they ask you to send money with a specific payment method. If your bill is higher than expected or comes by surprise, contact the IRS through a trusted channel. You should also report IRS impersonations at irs.gov.
Stay vigilant to protect your account
Bookmark our site, citi.com/fraudprevention, and visit often for the latest updates on common scams and how to spot them. If you think you may have been targeted for a scam, report it at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/