Don't fall for these common tax scams in 2026, IRS warns
By Roxanne Downer
Published on March 28, 2026.
The US IRS has issued its annual "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams, highlighting the most common schemes targeting taxpayers in 2026. These include phishing emails, ghost tax preparers, fake tax credits, and other tactics designed to steal money, personal data or tax refunds. Scammers often personalize their messages using personal information found on data broker websites. If you receive a suspicious call, email or text claiming to be from the IRS, do not provide personal or financial information and avoid clicking links or downloading attachments. The IRS will not typically demand immediate payment over the phone or contact via gift cards, prepaid debit cards or cryptocurrency. The most common tax scam involves fraudulent messages designed to look like official IRS communications.
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