As the 2025 tax season comes to a close, the IRS is reminding small business owners, independent contractors, and all taxpayers to remain cautious of scams and fraudulent schemes that can strike year-round. Form1099online.com, an IRS-authorized e-file provider, encourages filers to stay informed and take action to protect their tax and business information, even after filing deadlines like April 15 have passed.
Scams Can Strike Anytime: IRS “Dirty Dozen” List
Earlier this year, the IRS released its annual Dirty Dozen list, which highlights the top tax scams impacting businesses and individuals. These include:
- New client scams targeting tax professionals
- Spear phishing emails to steal sensitive data
- Fake charities soliciting donations
- False credit claims promoting improper tax benefits
- Bad social media advice leading to inaccurate filings
Small businesses that file Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, and other information returns should be extra vigilant. Criminals may attempt to collect confidential details such as W-2s, EINs, or bank account numbers, even outside of the traditional filing season.
Practical Steps to Safeguard Your Business and Employees
To help protect your business, the IRS recommends taking the following security actions:
- Use updated anti-virus and anti-malware software with automatic updates
- Enforce strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
- Only enter personal or business data on secure (https) websites
- Educate your team about common scam tactics and data security best practices
Additionally, business owners should safeguard their Employer Identification Number (EIN). Keep your EIN details current by submitting Form 1099 for any necessary updates. This minimizes the risk of identity theft or fraudulent use of your business’s tax ID.
Watch Out for Disaster-Related Scams
The IRS also warns that disaster seasons can create opportunities for scams. Fraudsters may impersonate IRS officials offering “help” with casualty loss claims or disaster relief filings. If your business is affected by a disaster, call the official IRS disaster assistance line at 866-562-5227 to get accurate, secure information about tax relief.
Resources to Stay Protected
The IRS provides resources to help businesses and individuals strengthen their security awareness:
- Publication 5961 — Protect your business from tax scams
- IRS Identity Theft Central
- IRS Security Awareness Publications
Stay Safe When Filing Form 1099s Online
At Form1099online.com, we prioritize your security. Our IRS-authorized platform uses encryption and multi-factor authentication to help safeguard sensitive taxpayer information. Whether you are filing Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, or other 1099 forms, we ensure safe, fast, and accurate e-filing directly to the IRS.
Conclusion:
Even though the April 15 tax deadline has passed, small business owners, gig workers, and independent contractors must remain alert. Protecting your data and keeping your tax information secure is a year-round responsibility. For safe and IRS-compliant Form 1099 e-filing, trust Form1099online.com.