Tax filing and return season is a common time for thieves to steal identities and money, according to officials with the Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA).
The department released tips to help residents avoid falling victim to fraud and scams.
- Watch out for imposter scams. Fraudsters often pose as the IRS and the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR). Don’t respond to requests for personal information from phone calls, texts, emails or social media.
- File as early as possible. Identity thieves use consumer information to file tax returns and steal refunds before the individual files.
- Use trusted, well established tax preparation websites.
- E-file in safety. When filing online, make sure your anti-virus software is updated and ensure the computer is connected to a secure internet connection. Look for a small padlock on the screen and that the web address begins with “https.” Do not use public Wi-Fi.
- Use a legitimate tax preparer. Consumers should make sure their preparer is reputable, licensed and has a Preparer Tax Identification Number from the IRS.
SCDCA holds free weekly webinars on Wednesdays for consumers and businesses to learn how to protect themselves from common scams. Register here.
State and federal returns are due April 15, 2026.