Tax scams on the rise in 2026: What you need to know

The Internal Revenue Service released its annual Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for 2026, highlighting schemes that put the tax and financial information of taxpayers, businesses, and tax professionals at risk.

The Dirty Dozen list is part of a broader awareness campaign led by the Security Summit, a partnership between the IRS, state tax agencies, and the nation’s tax industry. 

What they're saying:

"For more than two decades, the IRS has used the Dirty Dozen list to flag emerging scams that taxpayers should watch out for," IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said in an online news release. 

RELATED: What happens if you can’t afford to pay your taxes in 2026? IRS options explained

The 2026 Dirty Dozen: 12 key scams to watch for

Why you should care:

• IRS impersonation scams: Fraudsters use emails, texts, and social media messages posing as the IRS to steal personal information or direct victims to fake websites.
• AI-enabled phone scams: Robocalls and spoofed caller IDs mimic the IRS to pressure taxpayers for payments or sensitive information.
• Fake charities: Scammers create fraudulent charities—often after disasters—to collect donations and personal data.
• Misleading tax advice on social media: Viral "tax hacks" encourage taxpayers to claim credits they aren’t eligible for or file inaccurate returns.
• Identity theft targeting IRS online accounts: Criminals use stolen personal information to gain unauthorized access to taxpayer accounts.
• Abusive capital gains credit claims: Some schemes involve fabricated or inflated Form 2439 filings tied to nonexistent or misrepresented investment funds.
• Bogus "self-employment tax credit" promotions: Promoters mislead taxpayers into filing for credits they may not qualify for.
• Ghost tax preparers: Preparers who refuse to sign returns or provide a PTIN, leaving taxpayers legally responsible for inaccurate filings.
• Inflated non-cash charitable deductions: Schemes that exaggerate the value of donated property to reduce tax liability.
• Overstated withholding claims: Fraudulent filings inflate withholding amounts to generate improper refunds.
• Spear-phishing attacks on tax professionals: Cybercriminals target preparers and businesses with malicious emails to steal client data.
• Misleading Offer in Compromise marketing: Some companies exaggerate the benefits of the IRS debt relief program and charge high fees to ineligible taxpayers.

How to protect yourself

What you can do:

• Avoid suspicious links or attachments: Do not click links or open attachments in unexpected messages claiming to be from the IRS.
• Hang up on suspicious calls: If you receive a questionable IRS-related call, end the call and follow IRS guidance on how to report the scam.
• Report phishing attempts: Forward suspected IRS-related phishing emails or messages to phishing@irs.gov and follow the IRS reporting instructions.
• Act quickly if identity theft is suspected: If you believe your tax identity has been compromised, visit IRS.gov/idtheft for steps to secure your account and begin recovery.