IRS scam phone numbers — reported calls impersonating the IRS
IRS impersonation scams are among the most reported phone frauds in the United States. Scammers call claiming you owe back taxes, face arrest, or must pay immediately via gift card or wire transfer. The real IRS never calls demanding immediate payment or threatening police action.
Warning: The IRS will never call you demanding immediate payment, threaten arrest over the phone, or ask for payment via gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
How this scam works
Caller claims to be an IRS agent and provides a fake badge number
They say you owe back taxes and will be arrested if you don't pay immediately
They demand payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
They may spoof official IRS phone numbers to appear legitimate
Red flags to watch for
Caller demands immediate payment without giving you time to question
Threatens arrest, deportation, or license revocation
Asks for payment via gift card or cryptocurrency
Claims you owe taxes you were never notified about by mail
Caller becomes aggressive or threatening when questioned
What to do if you receive this call
Hang up immediately — the real IRS contacts you by mail first
Do not provide any personal information or payment
Report the number to the IRS Phishing Reporting at phishing@irs.gov
File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Run the number through ScamRadar to check reports from other victims
Frequently asked questions
Does the IRS ever call you on the phone?
The IRS primarily contacts taxpayers by mail. While they may call in some cases, they will never demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or ask for gift cards. Any such call is a scam.
How do I verify if I actually owe the IRS money?
Log in to your IRS account at irs.gov or call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. Never call a number provided by someone who called you.
What if I already paid the scammer?
Contact your bank or payment provider immediately to attempt a reversal. Report the incident to the FTC, your local police, and the Treasury Inspector General at 1-800-366-4484.
Top cities reporting this scam
Local fraud data and flagged numbers for these metros