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Navigating Social Media's Tax Advice Minefield

In the digital era, social media has become a pervasive source of information on nearly every topic—from culinary techniques to complex financial guidance, including taxes. However, while these platforms are undeniably convenient, sourcing tax advice from them can be fraught with risk. Misinformation or erroneous tax guidance encountered on social media can lead to significant negative consequences for taxpayers. Below are strategies for navigating these pitfalls and safeguarding your financial wellbeing.

The Social Media Tax Advice Phenomenon - Platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram have witnessed a surge in influencers and self-proclaimed tax experts doling out tax tips. Despite their often good intentions, these platforms are rife with errors and misstatements due to oversimplified dissemination of intricate tax matters, leading to rampant misinformation.

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Widespread Misinformation Schemes - Misinformation on tax-related topics is prevalent across social media, including false claims regarding tax credits such as the Fuel Tax Credit and the Sick and Family Leave Credit. Contrary to claims of universal accessibility, these credits have specific eligibility requirements. The Fuel Tax Credit, for instance, is designated for off-highway business fuel use, while the Sick and Family Leave Credit applies only to eligible employers—not individual taxpayers. Misunderstanding these can lead to erroneous filings and hefty penalties.

Further compounding the issue is the propagation of misleading practices involving Forms W-2 and 1099, with some posts encouraging fabrication of income figures to inflate refund amounts, significantly complicating taxpayer interactions with the IRS.

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Real-World Example – An illustrative case involves the misapplication of the Employee Retention Credit (ERC). Initially intended as a pandemic relief to promote employee retention, the ERC was severely misrepresented through media and online promoters. Promoters touted it excessively, often charging sizable upfront fees, ultimately leading business owners to file incorrect claims with significant financial and legal repercussions. Many of these promoters vanished post-payment, leaving affected business owners vulnerable to IRS audits and penalties, underscoring the impact of misinformation disseminated by unreliable sources.

The Tangible Consequences - Acting upon flawed tax information can have severe outcomes. Potential risks include:

  1. Delayed or Denied Refunds: The IRS scrutinizes dubious claims. Claims appearing inflated or unfounded can result in refund delays or denials.

  2. Penalties and Financial Sanctions: Taxpayers acting on inaccurate or fraudulent social media advice are subject to penalties, emphasizing the need for accurate tax filing. Examples include a 20% Excessive Claim Penalty, potential 75% fraud penalties, and additional negligence penalties, collectively posing significant financial strains.

  3. Legal Ramifications: Persistent misinformation use can lead to audits or even criminal charges, with possible imprisonment for offenders.

  4. Identity Theft: Engaging with unreliable sources exposes taxpayers to identity theft and fraud risks, especially with insecure data sharing.

  5. Long-Term Financial Harm: Incorrect filings affect fiscal health, prompt recurring audits, and complicate future credit and refund claims.

Proactive Defense Strategies - Faced with these threats, it’s vital to skeptically assess social media tax advice. Here’s how to protect yourself:

  • Verify Information: Always cross-reference social media advice with credible sources, such as the IRS website or vetted tax professionals.

  • Stay Aware of Scams: Monitor the IRS’ “Dirty Dozen” list to keep abreast of the common scams utilized.

  • Report Fraud: Utilize IRS Form 14242 to report fraudulent activities, helping mitigate further fraud and protect others.

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Navigating tax filing is stressful enough without erroneous social media influence. Critical evaluation of advice is crucial. Misguided tactics not only jeopardize refunds but can lead to serious financial and legal issues.

Empower your tax filing decisions with vetted resources, such as IRS guidelines and professional support. Genuine understanding enforces secure tax processes; avoid the pitfalls of misleading social media guidance. Protect your financial health and security by steering clear of the alluring yet treacherous realm of social media-sourced tax advice.

For personalized tax guidance and legitimate tax benefit exploration to reduce tax liability, contact our office for professional assistance with commitment to accuracy and integrity.

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