The IRS has warned taxpayers about a scam linked to the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS).
The scam works like this: the victim receives a phone call from someone claiming to be with the IRS who says that certified letters have been sent but were returned undeliverable. The caller threatens the victim with arrest if a payment is not made through a prepaid debit card linked to the EFTPS system. The EFTPS system is a freely available automated system that does not require a prepaid debit card. The victim may also be warned not to contact their tax preparer, attorney, or local IRS office until after the payment is made.
The IRS has said that the first contact a taxpayer receives from the actual IRS will not be a random, threatening phone call. According to the IRS, these are the most likely signs that you are being targeted:
- A phone call demanding immediate payment by a specific method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer. The IRS does not use these methods for tax payment.
- Threats to immediately bring in law enforcement to arrest the taxpayer if payment is not made.
- A demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer any opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
- A request for credit or debit card information over the phone.
If you receive a call meeting this or similar criteria, do not give out any personal information and hang up immediately. If you have any questions about a call or a letter you receive from someone claiming to be the IRS, contact us right away to discuss it.
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