Is this IRS letter real?

How to check if a letter is really from the IRS

1. Log in to your IRS Online Account at IRS.gov and look for the notice listed there, or open the official IRS2Go app.
2. Call the IRS using a phone number you find on IRS.gov, not a number printed on the letter itself, since scam letters often include fake IRS phone numbers.
3. Compare the notice number, letterhead, and formatting with a real example on IRS.gov's notices and letters page.

How the IRS usually contacts people

The IRS usually first contacts taxpayers about a tax bill or audit by mail through the US Postal Service. The IRS does not normally initiate contact by email, text message, or social media to request personal or financial information.

Signs of a scam

• A demand to pay immediately using a gift card, prepaid debit card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
• A threat to immediately bring in local police or other law enforcement to have you arrested for not paying
• A demand that you pay taxes without the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed
• A request for your credit or debit card number by phone
• A phone call, text, or email asking for personal or financial details out of the blue

What to do if you think a letter is fake

Do not click links or call numbers printed in a suspicious letter, text, or email. Instead, check your IRS Online Account, call the IRS using a number from IRS.gov, or report suspected scams to the IRS using the reporting process described on their website.

How OweRight fits in

Scanning a letter in the OweRight iPhone app to get a plain-English explanation of a genuine IRS notice is free. OweRight is not affiliated with the IRS and cannot confirm whether a specific letter is genuine; for that, use your IRS Online Account or call a number listed on IRS.gov.