Tax Scams Bingo - Call List

(Print) Use this randomly generated list as your call list when playing the game. There is no need to say the BINGO column name. Place some kind of mark (like an X, a checkmark, a dot, tally mark, etc) on each cell as you announce it, to keep track. You can also cut out each item, place them in a bag and pull words from the bag.

1. Free tax filing is available for most seniors through IRS Free File. If your income is $79,000 or under, you can file completely free at irs.gov/freefile.
2. You have the right to refuse and verify. No law requires you to respond to a tax demand on the spot — ever. You always have the right to hang up, consult someone, and call back through official channels.
3. Tell someone if you've been targeted — even if you didn't fall for it. Reporting attempts helps authorities track patterns and protect others in your community.
4. Scammers sometimes call repeatedly to wear you down. If you've said no once, hang up every time after. Legitimate agencies don't call repeatedly with escalating threats.
5. Verify any IRS letter by looking up the notice number at irs.gov. Every legitimate IRS notice has a specific notice or letter number in the top right corner — you can verify it on the IRS website.
6. Tax scams peak between January and April. Fraudsters ramp up activity during tax season when people are most focused on filing — stay extra vigilant during these months.
7. Use free IRS-sponsored tax help. The VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free, legitimate help.
8. Scammers often pose as state tax agencies too. It's not just the IRS — fraudsters impersonate state revenue departments, which many people are less familiar with.
9. Ask your bank about elder fraud protection services. Many banks now offer specialized monitoring and alerts specifically designed to protect older customers from financial scams.
10. A refund that arrives unexpectedly in your account may be part of a scam. Keep any unexpected deposits and report them to your bank immediately.
11. You cannot be arrested over the phone for a tax debt.
12. Watch for W-2 or 1099 forms that arrive unexpectedly. Receiving tax forms from employers or institutions you don't recognize is a sign someone may have used your identity.
13. Talk to a trusted family member or friend before responding to any unexpected tax contact. A second opinion can prevent costly mistakes.
14. If you've been scammed, you are not alone and it is not your fault. Reporting to reportfraud.ftc.gov or calling 1-877-382-4357 helps protect others and may help you recover losses.
15. Don't click links in tax-related emails or texts. Always go directly to irs.gov by typing it into your browser.
16. The IRS has a dedicated Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). If you're ever a victim of tax identity theft, TAS (reachable at 1-877-777-4778) provides free help navigating the resolution process.
17. "Grandparent scams" sometimes have a tax twist. A caller may claim your grandchild owes back taxes and is facing arrest unless you pay immediately. Always call your grandchild directly to verify before doing anything.
18. If your identity is stolen for tax purposes, you are not liable for fraudulent returns. Report it immediately to the IRS using Form 14039.
19. Never let a tax preparer use their own email address on your return. Your contact information on your tax return should always be your own.
20. Tax software accounts are prime hacking targets. Use a unique password for TurboTax, H&R Block, or any tax platform — don't reuse passwords from other accounts.
21. Only use secure, password-protected Wi-Fi when accessing tax accounts online. Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial matters.
22. You have 10 legally protected rights as a taxpayer, including the right to privacy, the right to be informed, and the right to a fair hearing. Scammers count on you not knowing this.
23. The IRS will never demand payment without first mailing you an official bill. By law, the IRS must send written notice before any collection action.
24. Create an IRS Online Account at irs.gov. This lets you monitor your tax records, payment history, and any returns filed in your name — so you can spot fraud early.