Protecting Yourself From IRS Scammers

cpa1dev on April 20, 2026

Know how and when the IRS contacts you so you can protect yourself from impersonators.

Ways The IRS contacts you

The IRS typically contacts you the first time by mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

To verify it’s the IRS, search IRS notices and letters. Some letters are sent from private collection agencies.

Other ways the IRS may contact you:

  • Email – They email only with your permission, with a few exceptions like criminal investigations.
  • Text message – They text you only with your permission.
  • Phone – The IRS or private collection agencies may call you to address account matters. In some cases, IRS uses automated messages that direct you to IRS.gov to securely manage your account, make payments or resolve an issue. The messages don’t share specific details.
  • Fax – They might send a fax to verify or request employment information.
  • In-person visit – These are rare. Find out how and when IRS employees visit you or your business. The IRS generally sends a letter before we visit.

The IRS doesn’t:

  • Direct message or take payment on social media. Follow our social media accounts
  • Accept gift cards or prepaid debit cards as payment
  • Call with automated messages that threaten or direct to websites that aren’t IRS.gov
  • Threaten to call law enforcement or immigration officials
  • Take your citizenship status, driver’s license or business license
  • Mail tax debt resolution advertisements

If the IRS visits you

Unannounced visits are rare. Only 4 types of IRS employees may visit your home or business. Each contacts you in specific ways and carries official identification (ID).

Revenue agents – examinations (audits)

Revenue officers – collections

Special agents – criminal investigations

Fuel inspectors

Identification the IRS carries

Revenue officers, revenue agents and fuel inspectors carry an IRS-issued credential (pocket commission) and HSPD-12 card. Both have the employee’s serial number and photo. You can ask to see both.

  • You may ask to see an additional ID from revenue agents and fuel inspectors.
  • Fuel inspectors also wear uniforms and drive government vehicles.

Criminal Investigation special agents present law enforcement credentials when they investigate.

If you feel unsafe, call 911

If the person doesn’t show you these IDs or you aren’t sure about them, call the number on the card provided by the revenue officer or agent. For more information go to www.IRS.gov