04/29/2026
⚠️ IRS Notice CP53E — Know the Difference Between Real and Fake
If you received a letter from the IRS stating your refund has been frozen and asking for your bank account information, you are not alone. Over 1.4 million Americans have received IRS Notice CP53E in 2026 — and scammers are already sending convincing fake versions to steal banking information.
What is CP53E?
Due to a federal policy change eliminating paper refund checks, the IRS is requiring taxpayers to provide direct deposit information to receive their refunds. The legitimate notice gives you 30 days to respond.
How to spot a fake:
The real CP53E will never include a QR code, ask you to call a number to provide bank details, arrive via email or text, or be dated in the future. If your letter includes any of these — it is a scam.
What to do:
Go directly to https://zurl.co/rtUzD by typing it into your browser. Never click a link, scan a QR code, or provide banking information over the phone. The IRS will never call, text, or email you about this notice.
If you believe you received a fake letter, report it to [email protected] and the FTC at https://zurl.co/fSEmB.
Stay safe and share this with anyone who may be at risk.