IRS Payment Scams Are on the Rise: How to Protect Yourself This Tax Season
As the tax deadline approaches, many people are focused on filing returns or making last-minute payments. Unfortunately, scammers know this—and they take advantage of the urgency.
At Affinity Federal Credit Union, protecting your financial wellbeing is just as important as helping you grow it. That’s why we want to help you recognize one of the most common threats this time of year: IRS payment scams and fake tax websites.
What Are IRS Payment Scams?
IRS payment scams are fraudulent attempts to trick you into sending money or sharing personal information by pretending to be the IRS.
These scams often appear as:
- Emails or text messages claiming you owe taxes and must pay immediately
- Links to websites that look like IRS.gov but are actually fake
- Messages threatening penalties, legal action, or arrest if you don’t act quickly
Important to know: The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers through email, text messages, or social media.
Why These Scams Spike in April
Mid-April is one of the busiest—and most stressful—times of the year for taxpayers. Scammers use that urgency to their advantage.
They rely on:
- Time pressure (“Pay now to avoid penalties”)
- Fear tactics (“Legal action will be taken”)
- Convenience traps (providing a quick payment link that looks legitimate
When you’re trying to meet a deadline, it’s easier to click before thinking.
How to Spot a Fake IRS Payment Request
Here are some common red flags:
- You’re asked to click a link to pay
The IRS will never send you a direct payment link via email or text. - The message creates urgency or fear
Scammers often pressure you to act immediately. - The website looks real—but isn’t
Spoofed websites may look like IRS.gov but have slight differences in the URL. - Payment methods seem unusual
Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency are always a red flag.
How to Safely Pay the IRS
If you do need to make a payment, the safest way is simple:
Go directly to the official IRS website: www.irs.gov
Do not click links from emails or texts—even if they look legitimate.
Simple Steps to Protect Yourself
Protecting your financial information doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can go a long way:
- Always type in website addresses directly instead of clicking links
- Pause before acting on urgent messages—especially those involving money
- Verify communications through official channels
- Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual activity
A Quick Reminder About Your Affinity Accounts
Just like with tax payments, it’s always best to access your financial accounts directly through trusted channels.
We will never ask you to:
- Share your login credentials via email or text
- Click a link to “verify” your account information
- Provide sensitive information in an unsolicited message
We’re Here to Help Protect Your Financial Wellbeing
Fraud prevention is part of our commitment to your financial wellbeing. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts—and reach out.
If you believe you’ve encountered a scam or shared information in error, contact us right away so we can help protect your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the IRS send payment links by email or text?
No. The IRS does not initiate contact through email or text messages, and it will not send payment links this way.
What should I do if I clicked a suspicious link?
Act quickly—avoid entering any information, and contact your financial institution to report the incident and secure your accounts.
How can I confirm if a tax payment request is real?
Always go directly to IRS.gov or consult a trusted tax professional. Never rely on links in messages.
Final Thought
Tax season should be about staying on track—not worrying about scams. By taking a few extra moments to verify before you click, you can protect both your identity and your finances.
At Affinity, we’re here to support you every step of the way.