Buyer Beware: Don't Let Social Media Cost You Thousands in IRS Penalties

At Freedom Line Accounting & Tax, we’re seeing a growing problem—and it’s one you need to know about before it hits your wallet.

The IRS just announced it has already assessed over $162 million in penalties against taxpayers who fell for scams spreading on social media. These schemes promise “easy money” by claiming you qualify for tax credits you don’t actually deserve, like the Fuel Tax Credit or the Sick and Family Leave Credit.

Here’s the catch:
👉 These credits are not for everyone—most taxpayers don’t qualify.
👉 Following the bad advice on TikTok, Facebook, or YouTube could mean:

  • Refund delays or flat-out denials

  • A $5,000 penalty for filing a frivolous return

  • More IRS letters, audits, and headaches

Red Flags to Watch Out For

  • Posts claiming “everyone qualifies” for a certain tax credit

  • Promises of a “fast refund” with little to no paperwork

  • Instructions to amend returns you previously filed correctly

  • Advice to ignore IRS letters or respond with false info

What To Do If You Got Caught Up

If you’ve already filed something questionable or followed one of these scams—don’t panic, but don’t wait either:
✅ File an amended return to fix mistakes
✅ Respond quickly to any IRS letters
✅ Get professional help from someone who actually knows tax law (that’s us 🙋🏽‍♀️)

The Bottom Line

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Social media is not your accountant. Filing the wrong way could cost you thousands.

That’s where we come in. At Freedom Line Accounting & Tax, we help small business owners and individuals file correctly, keep more of their money, and stay on the IRS’s good side.

👉 Don’t risk a $5,000 mistake. Book a consultation with Freedom Line today and let’s make sure your taxes are done right.

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