Yes — this is a scam

Is This IRS Refund Text a Scam?

Got a text about an IRS tax refund? The IRS does not text you. Here's how the scam works and how to check your real refund status.

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What the scam looks like

Examples of common scam message patterns. These are composites based on real reported scams, not quotes from specific individuals.

SMS message — example of a common scam pattern

“IRS Notice: Your tax refund of $1,847.00 has been approved. To receive your refund via direct deposit, verify your identity at: irs-refund-verify.com/claim?ref=TX29471”

Alternate version — example of a common scam pattern

“U.S. Treasury: You are eligible for a tax refund adjustment of $2,340. This amount will expire if not claimed within 48 hours. Claim now: irs-payment.top/refund”

Why this is suspicious

The IRS does not send text messages — ever. Not about refunds, audits, or anything else.
The IRS does not send emails asking you to click links
Refunds don't 'expire' — if you're owed money, the IRS sends it or holds it until you claim it
The URL is not irs.gov — it's a phishing domain (irs-refund-verify.com, irs-payment.top)
These domains are registered days ago and designed to steal your SSN and banking details
The IRS already has your banking info if you set up direct deposit on your tax return
Real IRS communications come by postal mail — on paper, through USPS

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What to do

Do not click the link or enter any personal information
Check your actual refund status at irs.gov/refunds (Where's My Refund tool)
Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)
Report the IRS impersonation to phishing@irs.gov
Report to the Treasury Inspector General at tigta.gov
If you entered your SSN or banking info, file an identity theft report at identitytheft.gov and contact the IRS Identity Protection unit at 1-800-908-4490

Frequently asked questions

Does the IRS send text messages about refunds?+

No. The IRS does not initiate contact via text message, email, or social media. All official IRS communications begin with a letter sent through the US Postal Service. Any text claiming to be from the IRS is a scam — no exceptions.

How do I check my real IRS refund status?+

Go directly to irs.gov/refunds and use the 'Where's My Refund?' tool. You'll need your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount from your return. You can also call the IRS refund hotline at 1-800-829-1954. Never use a link from a text or email.

What happens if I clicked the link in a fake IRS text?+

If you only clicked but didn't enter information, you're likely fine — close the page and clear your browser history. If you entered your SSN, bank details, or other personal information, file an identity theft report at identitytheft.gov immediately, contact the IRS Identity Protection unit at 1-800-908-4490, and freeze your credit.

Can the IRS take away my refund if I don't respond to a text?+

No. The IRS cannot and will not revoke a legitimate refund because you didn't respond to a text message. Tax refunds do not expire within 48 hours. If you're owed a refund, it will be deposited or mailed to you according to your tax return. Urgency and deadlines in texts are manufactured by scammers.

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