Are there any known irs scams using letter mail

Yes, unfortunately, there are known IRS scams that use letter mail to target victims. Here are some examples:

  1. Phony IRS letters: Scammers may send fake letters claiming you owe back taxes or have unpaid taxes. These letters may look official, but they're designed to trick you into revealing personal information or sending money.
  2. Fake tax refund notices: Scammers may send fake letters claiming you're eligible for a tax refund, but you need to provide personal information or pay a fee to receive it.
  3. IRS impersonation letters: Scammers may send letters claiming to be from the IRS, demanding payment for alleged tax debts or threatening to seize assets.
  4. Fake W-2 and 1099 forms: Scammers may send fake forms claiming you owe taxes on income you never earned or didn't report.

To avoid falling victim to these scams:

  1. Verify the authenticity of the letter: If you receive a letter claiming to be from the IRS, verify its authenticity by contacting the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
  2. Be cautious of generic greetings: Legitimate IRS letters usually address you by name and include your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
  3. Watch for poor grammar and spelling: Scammers often make mistakes in their letters. Legitimate IRS letters are professionally written and free of errors.
  4. Don't respond to threats or demands: The IRS will never threaten to arrest you or seize your assets without following proper procedures.
  5. Don't provide personal information: Legitimate IRS representatives will never ask for personal information, such as your Social Security number, over the phone or by email.
  6. Report suspicious letters: If you receive a suspicious letter, report it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 1-800-366-4484.

Remember, the IRS will always contact you by mail or phone, but they will never:

Stay vigilant and report any suspicious letters to the authorities.