IRS warns of 'Dirty Dozen' tax scams

Updated

Don't say they didn't warn you. The IRS just issued its annual "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams report, a list of frequently-used frauds that cheat honest taxpayers out of hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.

While there may be a long history of tax cheats, there's also a solid record of con artists that prey on those who are trying to do right by Uncle Sam. Among some of this year's chart toppers are hiding offshore accounts and tax preparer fraud.

"Taxpayers should be aware of anyone peddling scams that seem too good to be true," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman in the announcement. The agency warned that taxpayers who fall prey to such scams will be on the hook for unpaid taxes, plus interest and fees, and could even face jail time.

So without any further adieu, here's the "Dirty Dozen" tax scams to avoid when filing your taxes this year.

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