It’s a sad fact that we no longer live in a world where we can take everyone at face value. While there’s nothing more guaranteed to strike fear into the heart of all Americans than an unexpected visit, call, or communication from the IRS, it’s necessary to satisfy yourself that the person is an authentic IRS agent. The following discusses what to do should this happen to you, reasons you might get a visit, and how to identify that the contact is being made from a genuine IRS source.
Reasons the IRS Might Make Personal Contact
One reason the IRS may need to reach you is if there’s an outstanding amount of tax owed. Unannounced in-person visits are possible in an attempt to collect tax debts. There are instances when this might be carried out via a third-party debt collection agency. However, this latter stage can only be done following a written service of intent to do so.
Audits
Audits on a person or business might be carried out by an IRS agent visit. This will only occur with a prior appointment arrangement.
Criminal Behavior
Unannounced visits from federal law enforcement agents are possible for those who are the subject of a criminal investigation. These people are responsible for gathering information only, they’re not authorized to request or take any payment.
In situations where personal meetings with unknown individuals might occur, hiring a trained security guard ensures your safety while you verify identities or respond to unexpected visits.
IRS Agent Identification
Aside from asking for identification, the following should be red flags that the person you’re speaking to is not a genuine IRS agent:
– A request for payment in any manner other than directly to the U.S. Treasury
– An audit investigation of which you haven’t been given prior notice
– A request for payment from someone claiming to be a federal law enforcement agent
IRS Identification Documents
You should ask for identification documents from anyone claiming to be an IRS agent, debt collector, or federal law enforcement agent. It is your right to ask for and see their ID, and this should be over and above a regular ID badge and/or business card.
There are two official IRS documents that you can ask for:
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Pocket Commission: This is a form of ID card that carries a photograph and their role. It also lists the individual actions that they’re authorized to carry out.
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HSPD-12 Card: This is a federal ID card also known as PIV card (Personal Identity Verification). It should clearly state the IRS agency seal, the agency address, the person’s photograph and their characteristics (height, eye color, hair color, etc.). If necessary you can confirm the information on the card directly with the IRS.
All ID cards should be of high quality, with clear images, and no evidence of having been tampered with. Any genuine IRS agent will be happy for you to contact the agency to verify their ID if you have reason to doubt its authenticity.
When you’re still unsure about someone claiming to be an IRS agent, a professional private investigator can help confirm identities, detect potential scams, and provide guidance on how to handle suspicious contacts.
How to Report a Suspected Fraudulent IRS Agent
For suspicious emails, letters, or if you suspect that you’ve been visited by a non-genuine agent, send an email to [email protected] and include the following details:
– Time and date of the visit
– Employee name and badge number
– A summary of what was discussed
– If you’ve received an unsolicited phone call, the number of the caller, date, and time
– Your time zone and location
– Any phone number that you were requested to call back on
– Any other relevant information
For immediate concerns, you can call 800-829-1040, although in most cases the fastest solution is via the above email address.
Fast Guard Service Advice and Action for IRS Tax Scams
Fast Guard Service is a global leader in all aspects of security, including that of IRS scams, online, and data security. For any individual or company who’s concerned that their information might’ve been compromised for any reason, get in touch for immediate expert consultation at Fast Guard Security Service.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can I do to ensure that an IRS agent is authentic?
Request their official Pocket Commission or HSPD-12 card and check their information with the IRS.
2. What do you think are the red flags of a counterfeit IRS agent?
Any Payments to be made outside of the U.S. Treasury, unannounced audits, or demands by a person purporting to be a federal law enforcer.
3. What is the process of reporting suspected IRS fraud?
Forward an email to [email protected] with the information about the experience or make a call to 800-829-1040 in case of urgent issues.
4. Would a counterfeit IRS agent sue me?
No, only authorized IRS officials or federal police are allowed; fraudsters cannot impose payments in law.