According to The Kaplan Group, tax scams have resulted in 2025 YTD reported financial losses of $5,742,463.91.  Monthly tax scam reports rose 62% year-over-year, from 227 in 2024 to 368 in 2025, and have increased by 323% since 2020.  So what can you do to protect yourself? To help you stay safe, here are three key takeaways: <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"> <li class="MsoNormal" style= "mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">The IRS will almost always contact you by MAIL first.  If you get a text, email, or surprise phone call demanding personal information or payment, it's almost certainly a scam.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style= "mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Phishing and "smishing" are at an all-time high.  Scammers try to lure you with messages about fake refunds, threats, or "unusual activity." Never click suspicious links or share your personal info.</li> <li class="MsoNormal" style= "mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"> Double-check everything.  Unsure about a tax communication?  Review it with your tax professional, or check official IRS resources (linked on the podcast and IRS website).  Remember—the IRS won't email or text you unless you've explicitly given permission.</li> </ul> Stay vigilant, and don't let scammers get between you and your hard-earned money! Connect with Paul Contact Paul <a href= "https://www.tammacapital.com/contact" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">here</a> or schedule a time to meet with Paul <a title="free alignment meeting" href= "https://calendly.com/tamma/alignmentmeeting" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">here</a>. For resources discussed in this episode, visit <a href="https://tammacapital.com/podcast/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">tammacapital.com/podcast</a>. Follow Paul on <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfennercfp/">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@tammacapital">YouTube</a>. And feel free to email Paul at <a href= "mailto:pfenner@tammacapital.com">pfenner@tammacapital.com</a> with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Resources Featured in This Episode: <a href= "https://www.irs.gov/help/how-to-know-its-the-irs">How to know it's the IRS</a> <a href= "https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/dirty-dozen-tax-scams-for-2025-irs-warns-taxpayers-to-watch-out-for-dangerous-threats"> Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2025: IRS warns taxpayers to watch out for dangerous threats</a> <a href= "https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-irs-notice-or-letter"> Understanding your IRS notice or letter</a>

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