"The biggest thing is people posing as tax agents and saying, I can help you, and I can get you an incredible return. That's a huge red flag," said Alyssa Parker with the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas.
Parker said taxpayers should stay involved in the filing process and know exactly what's being submitted on their behalf, including where any refund is going.
"Make sure that your return is coming to you. If they say it is going to them, we really urge you to proceed with caution and maybe take a step back and see if this is someone you actually want to work with," Parker said.
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The IRS is also warning taxpayers about a growing number of scams this filing season. In its annual "Dirty Dozen" list, the agency highlights the most common threats, with impersonation scams topping the list.
Criminals are increasingly using emails, texts, and even AI-generated phone calls to pose as the IRS. Some scammers can manipulate the caller ID to make it appear legitimate. If you receive a suspicious message or call, experts say don't engage directly.
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"If you do get contacted by the IRS and you're a little nervous, you're not sure if it's real or not, go to IRS.gov; you can contact them directly, and then that way you can handle any sort of situation or answer any questions that they may have," Parker said.
The IRS said it typically initiates contact through mail, not urgent calls, texts, or emails demanding immediate action. Other scams on this year's list include fake charities, misleading tax advice on social media, identity theft involving IRS accounts, and so-called "ghost preparers" who file returns but refuse to sign them. Officials also warn about schemes promising inflated refunds through false deductions or credits, something that could ultimately cost taxpayers.
It's important to remember that even if someone else prepares your return, you are still responsible for what's filed. If a preparer inflates your refund by adding deductions that don't apply to you, and the IRS catches it, you will have to pay that money back and could face penalties.