Criminals Impersonating the PA Department of Revenue

Fraudsters are impersonating the PA Department of Revenue in letters sent to Pennsylvania business owners that direct them to turn over their accounting records. The criminals are attempting to trick taxpayers into providing their sensitive financial information.

The letters create a sense of urgency by saying that the recipient is being investigated for an “alleged violation of delinquent sales tax liability.” The letter threatens that penalties will be imposed if the instructions are not followed.

Despite bearing the Department of Revenue’s name and logo, several details about the letters can help taxpayers differentiate between these notices and legitimate ones. For example, the letters do not include an official return address; they address the letter with a generic “Dear Business Owner;” and list fake units of the department like the “Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Tax Investigation & Enforcement Unit” or the “Pennsylvania State Revenue and Cash Disbursement Unit,” neither of which exist.

Taxpayers are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of notices received by reaching out to the department directly. (Reach out to the department via their website or phone number you found yourself, don’t use the contact information listed on the notice.) Beware of vague language, errors, inconsistencies, and unexpected demands for urgent action.

Schreiber Accounting and Advisory can help you address a tax notice received with comprehensive tax planning and preparation services for small businesses, individuals, and nonprofits. Contact the firm for more information.

Material discussed is for informational purposes only. It is not to be interpreted as investment, tax, or legal advice. Individual situations vary, and this information should only be relied upon when coordinated with individual professional advice.