The change comes as reports of tax-related scams and fraud continue to increase, placing pressure on systems built around older tools and separate submission channels. By simplifying how information is submitted, the IRS intends to make better use of the tips it already receives and strengthen enforcement efforts during the current filing season.
Centralized Platform Replaces Fragmented Reporting System
The new webpage brings together multiple fraud-reporting options that were previously spread across different forms and sections of IRS.gov. According to the IRS announcement released February 26, 2026, taxpayers can now confidentially report suspected tax fraud, evasion, impersonation scams, identity theft, and misconduct by tax return preparers through a single entry point.
The page is accessible via a “Report Fraud” button on the IRS.gov homepage or directly at IRS.gov/SubmitATip. Each reporting option routes submissions to the appropriate division within the agency for review.
In its statement, the IRS acknowledged that the earlier “patchwork approach” created barriers for taxpayers and made it more difficult to process referrals efficiently. By consolidating reporting channels, the agency aims to reduce administrative friction and improve internal coordination.
IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said the improvements are intended to address long-standing operational challenges. According to the IRS release, Bisignano stated that simplifying the reporting process will help the agency make “maximum use of the referrals it receives” and emphasized that taxpayers play an important role in protecting the integrity of the nation’s tax system. The IRS described the webpage as an initial step rather than a complete overhaul of its fraud reporting framework.
Broader Modernization Efforts and Public Guidance
Alongside the new webpage, the IRS said it is implementing internal-facing improvements to enhance how referrals are processed and used to stop illegal activity. According to the agency, future plans include reducing the number of forms, automating aspects of the process, and adopting modern case management software to improve efficiency.
The agency stated that creating fewer work streams and simplifying submissions should allow referrals to be reviewed and acted upon more effectively in the coming years. The launch is part of a broader modernization push as filing season continues.
Public reporting remains central to the effort. The IRS is encouraging taxpayers to submit information as soon as possible when they suspect tax-related wrongdoing. According to the agency, timely reporting can help address fraud and noncompliance more quickly.
For individuals who believe they have been targeted by a scam, the IRS advises cutting off contact with the suspected scammer, refraining from sending money or personal information, and notifying their bank or financial institution. Those affected by identity theft are directed to recovery guidance available at IdentityTheft.gov.
Separate reporting mechanisms remain available at the state level. In Montana, for example, the Department of Justice reported in January 2026 that it had saved residents more than $1.6 million from scams and bad business practices in 2025, while handling over 500 scam complaints and more than 1,300 business complaints, according to Nonstop Local.
The IRS says further updates are expected as it continues to refine its fraud prevention and enforcement tools, signaling that the new reporting hub marks the beginning of a longer-term shift in how the agency manages taxpayer referrals.
