What Brand Ambassadors Should Watch Out for This Tax Season
Tax season can feel overwhelming, but for brand ambassadors and gig workers, it’s even more important to be cautious. Every year, new scams emerge that target independent workers, and the IRS recently released its 2025 Dirty Dozen list—a rundown of the most common tax scams to watch for. Knowing what to avoid can help you protect your income, file accurately, and steer clear of unnecessary trouble.
One of the biggest traps this year is bad tax advice on social media. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are full of misleading tips that claim to help gig workers get bigger refunds. Some posts encourage people to claim credits they don’t qualify for, like the Self-Employment Tax Credit, which doesn’t actually exist. Filing false claims can lead to audits, penalties, or even legal trouble. If a tax tip promises free money with little effort, it’s probably a scam.
Phishing and smishing scams are another major concern. Scammers are sending emails and texts that look like they’re from the IRS, claiming you owe taxes, have a refund waiting, or need to verify your identity. These messages often include fake links that steal your personal information. The IRS will never text, email, or message you first about taxes. If you get a suspicious message, don’t click anything—just delete it.
If you’re using a tax preparer, be careful about ghost tax preparers—scammers who file returns for clients but refuse to sign them, leaving you responsible for any mistakes or fraudulent claims. A legitimate tax preparer will always sign the return and provide their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). If a tax preparer asks you to sign a blank form or charges fees based on your refund amount, it’s a red flag.
Some scammers also encourage gig workers to overstate their income and withholding on tax forms, claiming it’ll lead to a bigger refund. This is a serious mistake. The IRS will reject fraudulent returns, and if they determine the false claim was intentional, you could face penalties or worse. Always report your actual income and use the correct forms, such as the 1099-NEC or 1099-K, if you receive one.
Fake tax credits are another common issue. Two in particular have been circulating this year:
The Fuel Tax Credit, which is meant for off-highway business and farming use—not gig workers.
Pandemic-era Sick & Family Leave Credits, which haven’t been available since 2021 but are still being falsely promoted.
If someone tells you they can get you a huge refund by filing for a random tax credit, be skeptical. Scams like these often result in rejected returns, audits, and penalties.
Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require awareness and accuracy. The best way to protect yourself is to file honestly, avoid social media tax myths, and never share personal information with unverified sources. If you have questions, check IRS.gov or talk to a trusted tax professional. Staying informed means keeping more of your hard-earned money and focusing on what matters—your success as a Dragon.
Reporting Tax Scams & Fraud:
Verifying Tax Professionals:
Tax Forms for Gig Workers:
🔗 Form 1099-NEC
🔗 Form 1099-K
Offer in Compromise (OIC) Pre-Qualifier:
Security & Identity Theft Protection:
