Why the IRS Doesn’t Call You (And How to Spot a Scam)

Here’s the scenario: you’re sipping your coffee, minding your own business, and your phone buzzes. The voice on the other end claims to be from the IRS. They say you owe thousands of dollars in back taxes and, if you don’t pay up immediately, the police will be at your door. Panic sets in. Could this be real?

No. It’s a scam. Every single time. Let me explain why—and what to do if it happens to you.

Why the IRS Will Never Call You

The IRS does not call taxpayers because their standard protocol is to communicate through official written correspondence sent via U.S. mail. This process ensures that their communications are documented, secure, and verifiable. Here’s why they stick to this method:

1. Security and Fraud Prevention: Written communication provides a clear paper trail, reducing the risk of impersonation. Phone calls are far easier for scammers to fake through caller ID spoofing, making it harder to confirm the identity of the person calling.

2. Legal Formality: Tax matters require documented proof for both parties. Letters ensure that you, as a taxpayer, receive a clear and legally binding record of the IRS’s requests or findings.

3. Internal Policy: The IRS has strict internal guidelines to avoid confusion and protect taxpayers. By adhering to mail as the primary communication method, they prevent misunderstandings and reduce the potential for fraudulent claims.

If the IRS needs to contact you urgently, such as in cases of ongoing audits or investigations, they will still initiate contact via mail first and may follow up with a phone call only after written communication has been established. Even then, they will never demand immediate payment over the phone or ask for sensitive information.

How to Spot an IRS Phone Scam

These scammers are pros at impersonation, but they all tend to follow the same script. Here’s what to watch for:

• Aggressive Threats: They’ll say you’re going to jail or losing your house unless you pay immediately.
• Demanding Personal Information: They might ask for your Social Security number or banking details.
• Caller ID Spoofing: The number might even look like it’s from the IRS (thanks to caller ID spoofing), but don’t fall for it.

What to Do if You Get One of These Calls

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Stay Calm: Scammers feed on fear. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that the IRS doesn’t operate this way.

2. Hang Up: Don’t engage. The longer you stay on the line, the more they’ll try to manipulate you.

3. Verify: If you’re genuinely concerned, contact the IRS directly at their official number: This ensures you’re speaking with a legitimate agent.

4. Report It: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov and let the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) know by calling 1-800-366-4484.

The Bottom Line

The IRS is one of the most feared government agencies, and scammers know it. That’s why they exploit people’s fears with these phony phone calls. The good news is that the IRS doesn’t work this way—and now you know how to spot the scams.

So, next time you get that call, don’t sweat it. Hang up, report it, and let the scammers know you’re not falling for their games. And if you’re ever unsure? Just remember this: the IRS will never call you out of the blue. Ever.