02/02/2023
I received a call this morning from a client that she came home to find a business card and some information in her door from an IRS agent. When she called the IRS agent back, the agent became indignant and started saying things like, "you're in big trouble". The agent had this client's social security number, and asked her to verify, but she was smart enough to tell him she would not verify anything over the phone.
We live in a very scary world today! Can the IRS just show up for a visit? The simple answer is......yes, they can! However, you should always understand how the IRS works, and what looks and sounds like a fraudulent moment.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. The IRS will NOT contact you by phone, text, or social media. All contact will be made by mail to the address that you listed on your tax return. If you owe a tax bill, it will also be sent to that address.
2. The IRS will only respond to an email that you have initiated.
3. The IRS may show up unexpected to your place of business (which may also be your home) if you owe more than $100K in taxes, or have unfiled tax returns, but they will only do this after sending multiple notices to you.
4. The IRS will never threaten to call the police, immigration officers, or other law enforcement.
5. The IRS will not demand that you pay the amount owed without the opportunity to appeal or question.
6. The IRS will not ask that you pay using a prepaid debit card or a gift card. If you have an outstanding federal tax debt, the revenue officer will request payment by cash, check, certified funds or money order payable to “United States Treasury.” The IRS also provides specific guidelines on how you can make a tax payment at IRS.gov/payments.
So now you ask...."How do I know if an IRS agent actually shows up?"
Great question!!!!!!
If you are present, ask for their identification. Revenue officers carry two forms of official identification, IRS-issued credentials (also called a pocket commission) and a HSPD-12 card. The HSPD-12 card is a governmentwide standard form of identification for federal employees. Both forms of identification have serial numbers and photos of the employee. If that doesn't satisfy you, ask for an additional method. Agents are able to authenticate who they are at the request of an individual in the field, and they can do it on demand.
"So what if I'm not home? How do I know the card in the door is real?"
Another great question!!!!
If an IRS agent visits your home or place of business, they may leave a business card, or a note, but they should leave a Field Contact Letter in a sealed envelope explaining the reason for the visit. No sealed envelope with an official letter, this probably means the person was not a real agent. I would recommend calling a tax professional to discuss the situation thoroughly. If you come to the conclusion that this was a personal committing fraud, then my recommendation would be to call the local police and file a report. This person has your address, social security number, and who knows what other information! Safety first!
Please, whatever you do, protect yourself! Don't give out your personal information over the phone, even if it is to verify your numbers. You don't know who has that information. If you're questioning whether or not it's a scam.....call a tax professional! We're here to help!
