The “Tax Refund” Email You Must Delete Immediately

February 3, 2026

Phishing scams are rampant, especially during tax season. People are stressed out about getting their taxes done on time, and many people also have anxiety about being audited. Scammers take advantage of the situation and try to get their hands on your sensitive information or steal your refund. One wrong click could hand over your Social Security number, bank account, or even your entire refund to a criminal. Here are seven things to keep an eye on and how to protect yourself before it’s too late.

1. The Email Says Your Refund Is “Approved”

The IRS never sends unsolicited emails saying your refund has been approved. If you receive a message claiming your refund is ready and asking you to click a link to claim it, it’s a scam. These emails often use official-sounding language and formatting to trick you into trusting them. But the IRS communicates refund status only through secure IRS.gov portals or by mail. Delete the email immediately and never click the link.

2. It Asks You to “Verify Your Identity”

Scammers often claim they need to verify your identity before releasing your refund. They’ll ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank account details, or even your IRS login credentials. This is a classic phishing tactic designed to steal your identity. The real IRS will never ask for this kind of information via email or text. If you’re unsure, go directly to IRS.gov and check your refund status there.

3. The Sender’s Email Address Looks Suspicious

Even if the email looks official, the sender’s address often gives the scam away. Scammers may use addresses like “irs-refund@securemail.com” or “taxrefund@irs-gov.net” to appear legitimate. The real IRS domain is always “irs.gov.” No exceptions. If the email comes from any other domain, it’s a red flag. Don’t reply, and don’t click anything.

4. There’s a Sense of Urgency or Threat

Scam emails often try to scare you into acting fast. They might say your refund will be delayed or canceled unless you respond immediately. This pressure is designed to override your better judgment. The IRS doesn’t operate this way. They don’t threaten or rush taxpayers via email. If the message feels pushy or alarming, it’s probably a scam.

5. The Email Contains Typos or Awkward Language

Professional government communications are carefully written and proofread. Scam emails, on the other hand, often contain spelling errors, strange grammar, or awkward phrasing. These mistakes are a major red flag. Scammers may also use odd formatting or inconsistent fonts. If something feels off, trust your instincts and delete the message.

6. You’re Asked to Click a Link or Download an Attachment

Any email that asks you to click a link or download a file to claim your refund is dangerous. These links often lead to fake IRS websites designed to steal your information. Attachments may contain malware that infects your device and captures your keystrokes. Never click or download anything from an unsolicited tax-related email. Instead, report the message to phishing@irs.gov.

7. You Haven’t Filed Your Taxes Yet

If you get a refund email before you’ve even filed your return, it’s definitely a scam. The IRS can’t process a refund for a return it hasn’t received. Scammers count on people being confused about filing timelines and procedures. Check your filing status directly at IRS.gov. And remember, the IRS doesn’t initiate contact via email, text, or social media.

Stay Smart, Stay Safe This Tax Season

Scammers are counting on confusion and urgency to trick you into giving up your personal information. But with a little awareness, you can outsmart them. Always verify refund status through official IRS channels, and never trust unsolicited emails… no matter how convincing they look. If you receive a suspicious message, report it and delete it. Your tax refund is too valuable to risk.

Have you received a suspicious tax refund email this year? Share your experience in the comments to help others stay alert.