Protect yourself this tax season: how to spot identity theft scams and why it matters for homeowners

March 09, 2026 Homeowner

Tax season is in full swing, and that means your tax refund—and your identity—are prime targets for cybercriminals. Fraud attempts continue to surge, with identity theft reports climbing nationwide.

As thieves grow more sophisticated using phishing, smishing and social engineering, taxpayers must stay alert to the warning signs.

Common tax season scams

Below are the most frequent (and fastest growing) scams identified by the IRS and federal investigators:

Fake bills and false notices: scammers send letters, emails or attachments claiming you owe taxes, especially related to healthcare or new “fees”. The IRS warns that they never initiate contact through email, text or social media. Real inquiries start with a mailed letter.
Non existent “special taxes”: criminals invent taxes, such as a “federal student tax” and demand payment, often through wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.
Verification phishing: emails or texts prompt you to “confirm” your Social Security number, filing status or refund information. Opening the link can install malware or lead to credential theft.
Social media tax scams: influencers or posts spread false tax advice to trick users into sharing personal information or engaging with fraudsters.
CEO / payroll scams: criminals impersonate company executives and request W 2s or payroll data, putting entire employee groups at risk. Identity theft cases linked to employment and tax documents remain a major vulnerability.

How your homeowner’s insurance comes into play

You may not realize it, but identity theft is increasingly intertwined with your overall financial risk profile including risks covered (or not covered) by homeowner’s insurance.

At Armed Forces Insurance, you have the option to add additional coverage such as Identity theft expense coverage to your homeowner insurance policy to help pay for expenses incurred resulting from identity fraud.

As identity related crimes grow, having homeowner’s coverage with ID theft support can lessen both financial and administrative burdens.

Five ways to protect yourself this tax season

1. File early

The IRS flags duplicate filings as suspicious. Submitting your return early gives criminals less time to file under your name.

2. Opt for electronic filing & direct deposit

This minimizes the risks of stolen mail or intercepted checks.

3. Choose a reputable tax preparer

Avoid pop up shops or unverified preparers who could mishandle your information.

4. Secure your tax documents

Store digital tax files on encrypted or password protected drives. Keep physical documents locked away.

5. Use an IRS identity protection PIN (IP PIN)

This six digit code prevents criminals from filing a return using your Social Security number. Anyone with an SSN or ITIN can enroll. And if you spot a scam attempt, forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov

Identity theft can disrupt your finances, your tax refund and even your peace of mind. But with early action, strong awareness and the right insurance protections, you can stay a step ahead of scammers this tax season and all year long.

Armed Forces Insurance: home insurance from people you can trust

Armed Forces Insurance has been a trusted advisor to American armed forces service members and veterans for more than 135 years. We’re not a giant corporate skyscraper full of slick insurance executives. We’re a small company headquartered just down the road from Fort Leavenworth in Kansas. We know each other, and our customers know us. If you’re looking for someone you can trust to shoot you straight and help you protect your home and property, check out our homeowner insurance page. page.