BBB Offers Tips to File Taxes Free and Avoid Scams This Season

With the April 15 federal tax deadline three weeks away, the Better Business Bureau is pushing a message worth knowing for Yuma County filers: a straightforward tax picture does not have to come with a hefty bill.

Hiring a professional tax preparer can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, and while that expense is sometimes warranted, the BBB points out that many people with simpler returns can file both federal and state taxes at no cost if they qualify.

The IRS expects about 164 million individual tax returns for tax year 2025 to be filed ahead of the Wednesday, April 15, federal deadline. For Arizona filers who want to keep costs low, the IRS partners with various tax preparation services to offer Free File, and Arizona residents may also qualify for free file through the state's Department of Revenue. Commercial options exist as well: TurboTax offers free federal and state tax filing for simpler returns if filers meet certain requirements, and H&R Block offers free file for simpler returns if filers qualify.

If the situation calls for a paid preparer, the BBB advises checking reviews and looking for trusted BBB-accredited preparers at bbb.org before handing over any personal or financial information.

The scam warning is just as pressing as the free-filing guidance. As the tax filing deadline approaches, the BBB is urging consumers, especially last-minute filers, to stay alert, with scammers increasing their efforts by posing as the IRS and promoting fraudulent tax services, including so-called "ghost" preparers.

The IRS's annual report identified $4.49 billion worth of tax fraud in 2025, and reports to BBB Scam Tracker in 2025 showed a $350 median loss among those who encountered tax collection scams.

The IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text message, or social media. Scammers make cold calls or leave voicemails claiming a tax file has been flagged for review or that back taxes are owed, then coerce victims into paying quickly under threat of arrest or lawsuits, often demanding payment through untraceable methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps.

One of the most effective defenses against tax identity theft, according to the BBB, is filing as early as possible. The best way to avoid tax identity theft is to file your taxes as early as possible, before a scammer has the chance to use your information. Filers can also request an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS, a six-digit number confirming identity alongside a Social Security number. Anyone who believes they have been targeted can report the incident through BBB Scam Tracker at bbb.org.

Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to file their 2025 tax returns and pay any tax due. Those who cannot meet that date can request an automatic six-month extension, though the extension covers filing only, not payment of taxes owed.