Scammers Impersonate IRS with Texts Claiming $1,400 Stimulus Refund

In recent news, the IRS has been inundated with queries from taxpayers eager to know when they’ll receive their stimulus-related tax refunds.

This wave of anxiety has led many, including those who already received their stimulus money years ago, to search for answers online.

However, this heightened confusion has also opened the door for scammers looking to exploit individuals with fraudulent schemes.

How Scammers are Using the Stimulus Refund News

Taking advantage of the widespread uncertainty, fraudsters have begun sending fake IRS texts claiming that individuals are eligible for a $1,400 tax refund.

These messages may appear official but are part of a phishing scheme intended to steal sensitive personal information.

According to the Better Business Bureau, these texts may contain fake links that mimic IRS websites, leading victims to potentially harmful sites that could install malware or steal financial data.

Understanding the Real Stimulus Payments

Who Qualified for the $1,400 IRS Refund?

In truth, most people received their stimulus refunds years ago, with the IRS having distributed most of these payments by the time the news about the additional refunds surfaced. The Recovery Rebate Credit, which was a significant part of the stimulus program, was claimed by the vast majority of taxpayers.

However, about 1 million taxpayers missed out when filing their 2021 tax returns. This group, which represents a small fraction of total filers, failed to claim the credit and were therefore eligible for the special stimulus refund announced by the IRS in December.

How Did the IRS Distribute the Special Refund?

The IRS sent out this special refund automatically to those eligible individuals without requiring any personal information or additional payments.

Payments were made directly to taxpayers’ bank accounts or via mailed checks in December, with most people expected to receive their refunds by late January.

The amount of money each taxpayer received varied based on income, family size, and several other factors.

Recognizing the Scam: What to Watch Out For

What Does the Scam Look Like?

In the scam, a text message appears to be from the IRS, claiming that the recipient is eligible to receive a $1,400 economic impact payment. To receive this money, the text demands personal information.

The scammer may even promise quick delivery of the money, claiming that it will be deposited into the recipient’s bank account or mailed as a check within one to two business days.

The Better Business Bureau warns that these texts often contain fraudulent links designed to steal personal and financial information or introduce malware into the recipient’s device. The IRS never contacts taxpayers in such a manner.

IRS Official Communication Methods

The IRS typically communicates with individuals via regular mail sent through the U.S. Postal Service for the first contact. If you receive a letter from the IRS, you can verify its authenticity by searching for it on IRS.gov.

he IRS may send emails only if you’ve granted permission, and texts will only be sent under special circumstances. Social media, gift cards, or prepaid debit cards are not accepted by the IRS as payment.

Steps to Claim a Stimulus Check If You Haven’t Filed Yet

Filing for the Recovery Rebate Credit

If you haven’t yet filed your 2021 tax return, you still have until April 15 to do so in order to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit and any other refunds that may be due to you. However, be aware that the IRS will not accept late filings after the April 15 deadline.

Current Average Tax Refunds and Filing Stats

What’s the Average Refund for 2025?

For those already filing in the 2025 tax season, the IRS reported that the average refund processed by January 31 was $1,928, a 38.2% increase from the previous year.

Additionally, direct deposits were up by 24.2%, with an average direct deposit refund of $2,069.

How Long Until You Get Your Refund?

The IRS reports that most federal income tax refunds are issued in less than 21 calendar days if you file electronically and opt for direct deposit.

However, taxpayers claiming the earned income tax credit or additional child tax credit may see delays, with refunds expected by March 3 for these claims.

Where’s My Refund?

The IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool provides updated status information for those who filed early.

If your return was accepted by February 10, your direct deposit refund could arrive by February 21, while paper checks may take longer, arriving by February 28.

If your return was accepted by February 17, expect the same timeline for direct deposit but a March 7 arrival for paper checks.

Potential Refund Delays

While many early filers will receive refunds quickly, other factors may cause delays. These include issues with tax credits, missing documentation, or discrepancies with the tax return itself.

As mentioned, those claiming credits like the earned income tax credit may face additional scrutiny and thus experience delays.

Key Dates for Refunds

Filing Date Accepted	Direct Deposit Refund Date	Paper Check Refund Date
By February 10	February 21	February 28
By February 17	February 28	March 7

The announcement of new stimulus-related refunds has led to confusion and panic, with scammers using this opportunity to deceive taxpayers into revealing sensitive information. Always stay vigilant and ensure any communication claiming to be from the IRS is legitimate.

If you missed out on claiming your stimulus payment, there is still time to file your 2021 tax return and claim your credit. Make sure to avoid fraudulent schemes by sticking to official IRS channels and trusted resources.

FAQs

How can I avoid falling for IRS scams?

Always be wary of unsolicited texts or emails claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS will never contact you for sensitive information via text or social media. Always verify the legitimacy of communications through the IRS official website.

If I missed claiming the recovery rebate credit, can I still get it?

Yes, if you missed claiming the credit when filing your 2021 return, you can still file a return before April 15, 2025, to claim it.

How long does it take to get a refund?

Most refunds are issued within 21 calendar days if filed electronically with direct deposit. However, if you’re claiming certain credits, it may take longer.