There is a scam that has been going on for a while, but since the IRS has picked up on it again, I figured I would as well.
You get a call, or a text, or even a request on your social media page stating YOU OWE THE IRS BACK TAXES. The scammer could be forceful (see caps), or not. Eventually, the scam kicks in. The scammer tells you the only way to get the problem resolved is go out and purchase GIFT CARDS (that’s right. As if the IRS is now collecting on back taxes in gift cards). You will be given a bogus phone number to call back the scammer with the gift card number and PIN. You provide the scammer with this information and voila, now you’ve been scammed.
Listen folks, I will be as gentle as possible saying this. The IRS doesn’t take payment in gift cards, sheep, barter, or anything other than US currency. Furthermore, the IRS will not call you for money, text you for money, or friend you on Facebook and ask for money (or gift cards). If you owe the IRS money there is a statutory process they must follow to collect from you. Friending you on Facebook is not part of the statute. You will receive a progessively more threatening series of letters demanding payment. No calls. (The exception being if your case goes to a third party collection agency, but you would have already been receiving the letters by then.)
If you owe the IRS money and you begin to receive these letters, please set up a consultation with us. We will be happy to listen to your problem and come up with a solution.