Have you received a scam tax collection call? In most instances a caller threatens arrest or deportation unless money is paid toward past due taxes. The Department of Justice has attempted to crack down on these scams and even secured sentences of up to 20 years against members of a fraud ring.
Despite efforts by law enforcement Taxpayers continue to receive calls threatening arrest over tax debts. What should you do it if you receive a call?
If You Know You Don't Have Tax Problem
- Hang up. It's a scam.
- Report the call to the IRS using the Treasury Department's IRS Impersonation Scam Form.
If You Aren't Sure If You Have An Actual Tax Problem
- Hang up. It's a scam.
- Report the call to the IRS using the Treasury Department's IRS Impersonation Scam Form.
- Have a tax professional call the IRS to request a compliance check. A compliance check will uncover missing tax returns, open audits, tax liabilities, and other tax issues in your account.
If You Know You Have An Actual Tax Problem
- Hang up. (Remember it is still a scam.)
- Report the call to the IRS using the Treasury Department's IRS Impersonation Scam Form.
- Have a tax professional call the IRS to request a compliance check. Use the fear you felt thinking the actual IRS was contacting you as a motivation to finally solve your tax problems.
As a reminder, the IRS won't call to demand immediate payment, demand payment without the opportunity obtain additional information about the assessment, or threaten to arrest you for not paying.
If you have tax problems, are concerned about a scam tax collection call, or aren't sure of your tax filing and payment status contact Tax Attorney Adam Brewer to learn what options are available to you.