As we begin a new year, tax season is quickly approaching—and unfortunately, it’s also a peak time for criminal activity. During tax season, scammers and identity thieves increase their efforts to trick individuals into sharing sensitive personal and financial information, such as Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and tax records. With this information, criminals may attempt to file fraudulent tax returns, redirect refunds, or access other financial accounts without your knowledge.
These scams often come in the form of emails, phone calls, text messages, or fake websites that appear to be from the IRS, tax professionals, or financial institutions. Being aware of these risks and taking steps to protect your information is essential to safeguarding your identity and your refund during the tax filing process.
Staying informed, submitting your tax information securely, and remaining cautious when responding to unexpected requests for personal data can go a long way in helping protect you throughout the tax season.
Social Media Scams:
Bad tax advice on social media can mislead taxpayers about their eligibility for credits or refunds. Influencers may encourage people to provide false information on tax returns or claim the IRS is hiding certain tax credits. Some social media posts also expose taxpayers to scams and fraudulent schemes.
Phishing and smishing:
The IRS regularly warns taxpayers about phishing emails and smishing text messages—common scams used by criminals to steal personal and financial information. Impersonators often attempt to trick taxpayers into sending money, and clicking on links or attachments can compromise their devices.
Protection for seniors:
Scammers often target individuals age 65 and older—or those nearing retirement—to steal personal or financial information or money. Once seniors send money, scammers frequently pressure them to send more. If a victim is convinced to withdraw funds from a retirement account, it can also trigger unexpected tax consequences.
Identity Protection PIN:
An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six‑digit number that helps prevent someone else from filing a tax return using a taxpayer’s Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Taxpayers who do not already have an IP PIN can choose to obtain one proactively to protect themselves from tax‑related identity theft. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN—including individuals living abroad—is eligible for an IP PIN.
Clergy Financial Resources
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Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.
This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.
For more information or if you need additional assistance, please use the contact information below.
Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Tel: (888) 421-0101
Fax: (888) 876-5101
Email:Â clientservices@clergyfinancial.com