Most people I talk to about their IRS problem have already built the worst-case scenario in their head. The reality is usually much more manageable. I'm Darrin Mish, and I've been representing taxpayers before the IRS for 32 years. Here's what actually tends to happen.
Tax attorney Darrin Mish put this one-page guide together from official sources. Save it, print it or share it with someone who needs it.
What the infographic says
Is it really the IRS? The IRS says a call, email or text is not from the IRS if it does any of the first five things below.
- It comes out of the blue. The contact is unexpected.
- It rushes you. You are pushed to act right now.
- It threatens you. Scammers threaten arrest or deportation and won't let you question or appeal the amount.
- It asks for personal or financial information. Do not give it out to an unexpected caller, email or text.
- It demands payment now. Impersonators want you to pay "now or else."
- How the IRS really contacts you. First contact is normally a letter by U.S. mail. The IRS emails or texts only if you opted in. A social media direct message is never from the IRS.
- If someone shows up at your door. Visits are rare, and a letter usually comes first. Revenue officers and agents carry two IRS IDs you can ask to see.
- Got a fake IRS email?. Don't click links or open attachments. Send it to [email protected], then delete it.
Sources
- https://www.irs.gov/help/how-to-know-its-the-irs
- https://www.irs.gov/help/tax-scams/recognize-tax-scams-and-fraud
- https://www.irs.gov/help/report-fraud/report-fake-irs-treasury-or-tax-related-emails-and-messages
Checked October 2026.
If you have a question about your own situation, call tax attorney Darrin Mish at (813) 229-7100.
Attorney advertising. General information, not legal advice. Every case is different; follow the instructions and deadlines on your own notice.