Most of us are probably not looking forward to a call from the IRS, but, it’s not for the reason you may think.
Getting any type of communication from the IRS can make your heart beat faster, but know this: Almost all of the initial communication that the IRS does with taxpayers is through the US mail. If you’ve gotten a phone call, chances are, it’s a scam.
Some of these calls are very convincing – using employee ID numbers and what seem like valid phone numbers to return their calls. Some even threaten jail time or extensive fees and interest. Read more about the IRS “Dirty Dozen” Tax Scams.
If you’ve gotten a call like this, check it out by first calling your tax-preparer. If you do your own taxes, call the IRS directly to confirm. Then, the IRS suggests you call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484 and the Federal Trade Commission using their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov.