Expedited Tax Mediation Office Scam Calls and Voicemails

How the Scam Works

• The Hook: A robotic or high-pressure live caller claims to be from a government-sounding entity like the "Tax Resolution Oversight Department".
• The Urgency: They insist that "this is our final attempt to reach you" or that you must act before your relief options expire.
• The False Promise: They pre-qualify you for fake government initiatives like an "IRS liability reduction program" to wipe out what you owe.
• The Trap: They ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity or demand thousands of dollars in upfront fees to settle the debt.

Red Flags to Look Out For

• Unsolicited Cold Calls: The real Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will always first notify you of tax issues through official mail, never via an unexpected phone call or text message.
• Vague, Automated Scripts: Voicemails usually say things like "Hi, this is Kayla reviewing your tax file" without actually addressing you by your legal name.
• No Financial Background Check: Real IRS programs like an Offer in Compromise require strict evaluation of your income and assets. Scammers guarantee relief without knowing your financial details.
• Demands for Immediate Payment: The IRS never demands immediate payment over the phone using specific methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

What You Should Do

1. Hang Up Immediately: Do not reply, press any numbers to "opt-out," or use the call-back number provided in the voicemail.
2. Do Not Share Info: Never give out your Social Security number, bank routing numbers, or credit card details.
3. Check Your Real Status: If you think you might actually owe taxes, log into your official account on the IRS Portal or call their verified customer service line directly.
4. Report the Scammers: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission or log the scam with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

(Note: While the IRS does offer a real Fast Track Settlement and Mediation program to quickly resolve legitimate audit disputes, it is a voluntary process you must apply for yourself; the IRS will never cold-call you to enroll you in it).