Phone scams · 4 min read

IRS scam calls and texts: what the IRS will never do

Short answer

The IRS does not start contact by text, email or social media, does not demand payment by gift card, wire or crypto, and does not threaten immediate arrest. It usually mails a letter first. If a caller or text says otherwise, it is a scam.

What the IRS says it never does

  • Initiate contact by text, email or social media (IRS).
  • Call to demand immediate payment with a gift card, prepaid debit card or wire transfer.
  • Threaten to have local police arrest you for not paying.
  • Demand payment without giving you a chance to question or appeal.
Look up the number that contacted you

Carrier, line type and location are free. Private: nobody is notified.

Common versions

  • Robocall: "This is the IRS. A lawsuit has been filed against you."
  • Text about a tax refund, rebate or "stimulus" with a link (FTC, Nov 2022).
  • Fake "tax resolution" offers and QR codes that lead to fake IRS sites.

How to check if you really owe

Sign in to your account at IRS.gov or call the IRS at 800-829-1040. Forward scam texts and emails to phishing@irs.gov, and report scam calls to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). See the IRS tax scams page.

Questions

Does the IRS ever call?

Sometimes, usually after mailing you a notice. A real IRS call will not demand immediate payment by gift card, wire or crypto, or threaten arrest.

Where do I report an IRS scam text?

Forward it to phishing@irs.gov, and to 7726 (SPAM) for your carrier.

Who is behind that number?

Search a name, phone number or email to see public profiles and records.

Sources

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Published 2026-10-28 by the TrueSearch Safety Team. General information, not legal advice. In an emergency call 911.

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