The IRS has officially released its 2026 “Dirty Dozen” list, warning taxpayers about the most dangerous scams of the season. This year, criminals are using more sophisticated technology to target your refund.
The Top 3 Threats for 2026:
- AI-Powered Phone Scams: Scammers are now using AI to mimic the voices of IRS agents or even family members to demand immediate tax payments via wire transfer or gift cards.
- “Ghost” Tax Preparers: Be wary of anyone who refuses to sign your return or doesn’t have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). As an Enrolled Agent, I always sign your return and stand behind my work.
- Social Media “Tax Hacks”: Viral videos are currently spreading misinformation about the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Filing for credits you don’t qualify for can lead to audits and heavy penalties.
Viet Tax US Safety Tip:
The IRS will never initiate contact with you by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information. If you receive a suspicious message, do not click any links.
Protect your identity this season. If you’ve received a strange notice or “IRS” text, bring it my office and I will verify it for you.