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IRS Dirty Dozen Overview
The IRS released its Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for the 2026 filing season, targeting tactics used for identity theft and fraud against taxpayers, businesses, and professionals.
This annual list, running over two decades, flags emerging threats as criminals constantly evolve their methods to target personal data and money.
Taxpayers face risks year-round, with one notable change in this year's edition emphasizing ongoing caution.
12 Key Tax Scams Highlighted
- Phishing emails, texts, and DMs mimicking IRS with QR codes leading to fake sites.
- AI-enhanced phone scams using spoofed IDs and threats of arrest or payment demands.
- Fake charities exploiting disasters for donations that don't qualify for deductions.
- Viral social media posts pushing invalid tax credits and hacks.
- Unauthorized access to IRS online accounts using stolen info or posing as helpers.
- Abuse of Form 2439 for fake refunds on undistributed capital gains.
- Misleading self-employment tax credit claims for improper refunds.
- Ghost preparers who won't sign returns or provide PTIN.
- Inflated appraisals for donated property via conservation easements.
- Inflated withholding schemes to fake larger refunds with low income reports.
- Malicious emails targeting tax pros and businesses for data theft.
- Offer in Compromise mills overpromising results with high fees.
The list and other efforts to raise awareness provide a great opportunity to remind everyone to remain vigilant and watch out for scams because thieves continuously adjust the pitches they use to take advantage of honest taxpayers.
Protection Measures
IRS never demands immediate payment by phone or threatens arrest; initial contact is by mail.
Avoid clicking unsolicited links, report suspicious messages, and create IRS accounts directly on the official site.
Verify charities, ignore social media tax tips, choose preparers who sign returns, and use IRS tools for OIC eligibility.
Improper claims risk delays, audits, penalties, or criminal action.
