American Tax Professionals Scam - How to Protect Yourself

How the Scam Works

• The "Flagged File" Voicemail: Scammers leave automated messages claiming your file has been "flagged for manual review" due to an "older balance" or "missing returns."
• High-Pressure Urgency: The communication states it is a "final attempt" to reach you before legal action, wage garnishment, or asset liens occur.
• Upfront Fee Demands: If you call back, they will demand thousands of dollars in upfront "retainer fees" or "settlement costs" to fix the problem.
• Data Harvesting: They will attempt to steal highly sensitive information, including your Social Security Number (SSN), bank account numbers, or online tax credentials.

Major Red Flags

• Unsolicited Cold Calls/Texts: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) never initiates contact regarding tax debts through phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media platforms.
• USPS Mail Absence: Legitimate IRS or state communications start with a physical letter sent through the U.S. Postal Service.
• Alternative Payment Methods: If they ask to be paid via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, payment apps, or gift cards, it is 100% a scam.
• "Ghost" Preparers: Legitimate tax professionals are legally required to sign your return and provide their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). If they refuse to sign, they are fraudulent.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Hang Up and Block: Do not interact with the caller, reply to the text, or press any numbers to speak to an operator.
2. Check Your Real Status: Log directly into your official online profile via the secure IRS Portal to view your actual transcripts and verify if you owe any balance.
3. Verify Professionals: If you need legitimate help, use the official IRS Directory of Credentialed Tax Professionals to find a vetted, licensed CPA or Enrolled Agent.
4. Report the Fraud: Report the scammer's phone number and message details to the BBB Scam Tracker and file a complaint directly with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).