How Do I Report Internet Fraud to the IRS?
If you know of someone using the IRS's e-file system to commit tax fraud online, you should report it to the IRS. There are several types of internet tax fraud the IRS looks into. To make your report, you need to download the reporting form, fill it out and either mail it in or fax it to one of the IRS's scheme detection centers.
If you know of some kind of internet-based tax fraud, you should report it to the IRS. If you are an IRS-authorized e-file provider, you are required to report it. This article will teach you how.
Types of Internet Fraud the IRS Investigates
The IRS looks into several types of online fraud:
- Abusively prepared returns may claim inflated business expenses, excessive exemptions, unallowable credits, false deductions, understatements of liabilities, and anything else designed to get a refund to which the filer is not entitled.
- Evasion of taxes through false declarations of bankruptcy
- False payroll tax returns
- Money laundering
- Illegal internet gambling
- Identity theft
Reporting e-File Fraud to the IRS
If you believe someone is using the IRS's e-file system to commit fraud, you can report it by downloading Form 3949-A Information Referral, filling it out, and mailing it to the address on the form. Alternatively, you can fax it to your state's IRS scheme detection center. The fax numbers are:
- 978-691-6902 if you live in CT, DE, MA, ME, MI, NH, NY, PA, RI, or VT
- 770-455-2910 if you live in AL, FL, GA, MD, VA, or the District of Columbia
- 512-460-2724 if you live in AZ, NM, OK, or TX
- 859-669-3998 if you live in NC, SC, NJ, OH, PA, or WV
- 559-441-5881 if you live in CA
- 816-292-6190 if you live in IA, IL, IN, KS, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD, or WI
- 901-546-3148 if you live in AR, KY, LA, MS, TN, or Puerto Rico
801-620-6806 if you live in AK, CO, HI, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, or WY
Contacting the IRS
Once you make the report, the matter is pretty much out of your hands. If the IRS needs anything further from you, it will contact you. However, if you come upon new relevant information, or if you have any questions, you can try contacting an IRS representative for help. You can reach one by chat, phone, or the help forum.
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