Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

888-854-0224 Tax Resolution Scam

Scammers are making robocalls from, or asking potential victims to call, the telephone number 888-854-0224. The "Tax Resolution Assistance Center" scam is a widely reported phone and robocall being used to steal personal information or charge fraudulent upfront fees. These calls are not from the IRS or any legitimate government agency.

How the Scam Works

  • Unsolicited Contact: You receive a call or voicemail from a person (often "Jessica" or "Parker Ashland") or an AI-generated voice claiming to be from the "Tax Resolution Assistance Center" regarding your "back tax debt".
  • False Urgency: The message often states it is "imperative" you call back immediately and claims new changes to tax laws could eliminate your debt.
  • The "Pitch": If you call back, they may offer a "red flag check" on your credit or claim you qualify for an "IRS liability reduction program".
  • The Goal: They aim to collect your Social Security number, bank details, or charge an upfront fee (often thousands of dollars) for services they never provide.

Red Flags

  • First Contact via Phone: The IRS will always contact you by postal mail first before ever calling about a debt.
  • Pressure Tactics: Scammers often threaten immediate arrest, wage garnishment, or asset seizure.
  • Demand for Specific Payment: They may require payment via wire transfer, prepaid debit card, or gift cards.
  • Vague Company Names: They use official-sounding but fake names like "Tax Resolution Oversight Department" instead of stating they are with the IRS.

What to Do

  1. Hang Up Immediately: Do not engage, press any buttons, or provide personal information.
  2. Verify Your Tax Status: If you think you might actually owe taxes, contact the IRS directly at 800-829-1040 or check your account on IRS.gov.
  3. Report the Call:
    • Use the TIGTA IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or call 800-366-4484.
    • Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
    • Email the caller ID and callback number to phishing@irs.gov with the subject line "IRS Phone Scam".
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