Protect Yourself This Tax Season

Tax season can be stressful enough without the added worry of scammers trying to steal your hard-earned money. The IRS has once again published its "dirty dozen" list of common frauds and schemes to watch out for in 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the most common scams to help you stay safe:

Fake Charities:

It’s heartwarming to see people supporting disaster relief efforts or other causes, but some scammers pose as charitable organizations to take advantage of your generosity. Remember, you can only claim a tax deduction for donations to IRS-approved organizations. Always check the charity’s legitimacy using the IRS’s online tool and never share your Social Security Number. If you can’t verify the charity, keep your wallet closed!

Social Media Tax “Experts”:

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram or TikTok during tax season, you’ve probably seen influencers promising to reveal “secret” ways to maximize your refund. While they may sound convincing, many of these tips are flat-out wrong — and following them could lead to big trouble. One common scam involves advising people to falsify income on Form W-2. Don’t fall for it! Stick to trusted sources for tax advice, like the IRS or a certified tax professional.

Phishing and Smishing:

These classic scams are still going strong. If you receive an unsolicited email or text claiming to be from the IRS, delete it immediately. These messages could contain harmful malware or links to phishing sites designed to steal your personal and financial information. Be cautious of any urgent messages, especially those promising tax refunds or threatening action against you.

Sketchy Tax Credits:

In the past, there were special credits available to self-employed workers during the pandemic, but those credits are no longer available. Despite this, scammers are still spreading misinformation about non-existent credits like the Self-Employment Tax Credit or Fuel Tax Credit. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The IRS is closely monitoring claims, and incorrect submissions could lead to penalties or delays in processing.

Fake Employees:

Some people try to get creative by inventing fake household employees, like a nanny or housekeeper, in order to claim unearned sick leave credits. If the IRS catches wind of this, the penalties can be steep — including fines and even criminal charges for filing a false tax return. It’s simply not worth the risk.

This tax season, make sure to protect yourself from fraud by staying informed and cautious. If you’re unsure about any tax-related advice or communication, it’s always a good idea to double-check with a trusted tax professional or directly with the IRS.

For more tips and helpful resources to guide you through tax season, check out WyHy’s Tax Information page here. Stay informed and protect yourself from scams!

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