Filing season may be over, but tax scams and misinformation on social media are not. The IRS is reminding taxpayers to follow only verified, official IRS accounts — and to be skeptical of viral "tax hacks" that can lead to penalties or identity theft.
Why This Matters Right Now
With major tax law changes from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, social media is flooded with commentary, summaries, and unfortunately — misinformation. Not all of it is accurate. Some of it is deliberately misleading.
The IRS warns that scammers frequently impersonate the agency on social media to steal personal or financial information. The IRS will never contact you on social media to ask for your data.
Official IRS Social Media Accounts
All verified IRS accounts are listed on IRS.gov/newsroom/irs-social-media. Here's where you can find the IRS:
• X (Twitter) — Tax updates for individuals, businesses, and tax professionals. The handle @IRStaxsecurityspecifically focuses on scam prevention.
• Facebook — General tax information and event announcements
• Instagram — Tax law updates, reminders, and scam alerts
• YouTube — Short videos on specific tax topics; webinars on complex issues
• LinkedIn — Agency news, including job announcements
When in doubt, go to IRS.gov directly and click to the social media links from there.
Beware of Viral "Tax Hacks"
Even after filing season ends, misinformation spreads fast. The IRS specifically warns against social media posts encouraging taxpayers to:
• File returns with false information
• Claim tax credits they don't qualify for
• Use other schemes disguised as "loopholes"
Following these "hacks" can result in audits, penalties, and in serious cases — criminal referrals.
Subscribe to Verified IRS Email Updates
A safer alternative to social media is the IRS e-News subscription service. These are direct email digests from the IRS — no algorithms, no influencers, no misinformation.
• IRS Tax Tips — Plain-language tips on a wide range of tax topics
• IRS Newswire — News releases and legal guidance
• e-News for Small Businesses — Tax info for self-employed and small business owners
• IRS News in Spanish — Noticias en Español
Official IRS Sources
• IRS Verified Social Media Accounts
• Recognize IRS Tax Scams and Fraud
• IRS e-News Subscription Service
CPA Tips
• Expats and non-residents: be especially careful. Tax rules for non-residents are often misrepresented on social media.
• If you see something that sounds too good to be true — verify it on IRS.gov before acting. Better yet, ask a licensed CPA.
• For your specific situation, consider consulting a licensed CPA or tax attorney.