If tax season gave you paper cuts and eye strain, we’ve got bad news: scammers are still working overtime — even after the April 15 deadline. Unlike your CPA, they don’t take breaks.
In this publication, we're diving into the IRS's latest warnings for small businesses and entrepreneurs, who are now major targets for tax-related fraud. Whether you're a startup founder or run the local bakery, this is one scam season you can’t afford to ignore.
Tax season may be over, but scam season isn’t — and fraudsters are eyeing your business’s data, EIN, and employee info.
How It Works:
Fraudsters are deploying several creative tax-related scams, including:
- Phishing emails pretending to be new clients or IRS agents requesting W-2s or tax data.
- Spear phishing attacks targeting businesses with personalized, convincing messages aimed at stealing sensitive info.
- Fake charities appealing for donations or pretending to offer disaster relief help after storms or fires.
- Social media misinformation encouraging people to claim fraudulent credits or submit false filings.
- False credit claims where shady advisors push businesses to apply for refunds they aren’t eligible for.
And all of this is being packaged as “urgent,” “official,” or even “helpful” — when it’s anything but.
Who’s Targeted:
- Small businesses, especially during or right after tax season.
- Business owners managing payroll or HR functions.
- Employees handling sensitive records or customer/client data.
- Disaster survivors, who are vulnerable to post-emergency scams.
Real-Life Example:
The IRS has reissued its annual “Dirty Dozen” list, spotlighting these rising scams that trick business owners into giving up their most sensitive info. One repeat offender? Fake W-2 requests that arrive just after the tax deadline — when businesses think it’s all over.
“Businesses need to remain vigilant year-round,” the IRS warns. “A lapse in awareness can lead to identity theft, lost tax refunds, or serious penalties.”
Why You Should Care:
This isn’t just about a few fake emails — it’s about protecting your business identity, your employee data, and your financial future. A single misstep can lead to tax fraud, delayed filings, or even IRS audits.
And let’s not forget disaster-related scams, where con artists prey on communities at their most vulnerable — offering “help” that turns into costly fraud.
Actionable Steps:
- Never respond to email requests for W-2s or tax data — verify through a separate channel first.
- Use anti-virus software with automatic updates and enable multi-factor authentication for all logins.
- Update your EIN info with Form 8822-B and store it securely.
- Educate employees about phishing and data security — they’re your first line of defense.
- Report any tax-related scams to phishing@irs.gov or data losses to dataloss@irs.gov.
Quick Tips:
Did you know? Scammers often strike right after tax deadlines, when businesses are least expecting it — stay alert even off-season.
Pro Tip: Always check that a site is secure (https) before entering sensitive data, and never trust a request that urges you to “act immediately.”
Latest Update:
The IRS has also reminded disaster survivors: Don’t trust anyone claiming to be from the IRS who contacts you unsolicited. Always call their verified disaster assistance line at 866-562-5227 before giving out any info.
Plus, check out Publication 5961 to protect your business from tax scams.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keyword Definitions:
- W-2 Scam – A type of phishing where scammers trick businesses into sending employee wage and tax info.
- EIN (Employer Identification Number) – A unique ID number for your business used in federal tax filings.
- Spear Phishing – A phishing attack that targets a specific person or company using personalized info.
- Dirty Dozen – The IRS’s annual list of the top 12 tax scams threatening taxpayers and businesses.
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