That “tax refund” text or email is likely a scam
Roseville, Calif. – Tax season for 2026 officially began on January 26, when the IRS started processing 2025 tax returns. Unfortunately, that also marked the start of peak tax scam season. If you’re expecting a refund, scammers may try to steal it before you ever see it.
Be cautious of any unexpected text or email about a “tax refund,” especially messages urging you to click a link. These messages are often scams designed to trick you into sharing personal information and handing over your refund.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), these scams typically appear as messages that look like they’re from the IRS or a state tax agency, claiming your refund has been “processed” or “approved.” That’s a red flag; this is not how legitimate tax agencies communicate.
The message may ask you to “verify your identity” or “claim your money” by clicking a link and entering sensitive details such as your Social Security number or bank account information. This is phishing. If you respond, scammers can steal your refund or use your information to commit identity theft.
How to avoid tax refund scams (FTC tips)
- Know how the IRS really communicates. The IRS and state tax agencies will not contact you by text, email, or social media to request personal information. Only scammers do that.
- Don’t click links or reply. Never use a link from a message to check your refund status. Instead, go directly to USA.gov to learn how to verify whether you’re receiving a federal or state tax refund.
- Report and delete the message. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature, forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM), and mark scam emails as spam or junk. After reporting, delete the message.
To learn how to protect yourself from identity theft before it happens, visit IdentityTheft.gov/steps. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Source: Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
