Recently, there have been numerous calls from the “IRS” threatening you with lawsuits or jail sentences unless you pay up immediately. Don’t be a victim. The IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by e-mail, text message or social media channels to request personal or financial information. This includes requests for PIN numbers, passwords or similar access information for credit cards, banks or other financial accounts.
Remember, the IRS will never
- Call to demand immediate payment, nor will the agency call about taxes owed without first sending you a bill.
- Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount.
- Require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card.
- Ask for a credit or debit card number over the phone.
- Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
For more information,click here.
Teaching Suggestions
- Ask students if they have received a call from the “IRS” impersonators. If so, what was their response?
- Have students visit irs.gov and click on Tax Scams/Consumer Alerts to learn what the agency is doing to stop these annoying calls.
Discussion Questions
- What should do if you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and you know you don’t owe any taxes?
- Who should you contact to report such calls from the imposters?
Melissa Hart
Focus on Personal Finance, 7e 