Blue Flower

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WSYR-TV/ABC News) - After years of saying they won’t call you to demand payments like scammers, the IRS is now hiring debt collectors to call and demand payments.

For many, the news comes just as people were becoming wary of crooks claiming to be from the IRS.

Now, actual debt collectors on the IRS’ payroll will be calling if you haven’t paid what you owe.

But some worry that people will not be able to tell the difference between a legitimate collector and a scammer.

The IRS says it has no choice because a new law called the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act requires the agency to hire debt collectors to help pay for new roads.

The IRS says it will mail taxpayers two written notices before a debt collector will call.

If you get a call before receiving such a notice, it’s likely a scam.

In addition, the real debt collectors will never demand payment by wire or debit card, or threaten arrest.

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