Fake IRS Student Tax Refund or Education Credit Scam
Fraudsters impersonate the IRS by email or text claiming that students or recent graduates are owed a student education credit refund or a FAFSA-related tax adjustment that can be claimed through a link. The IRS processes education credits through filed tax returns and never directs taxpayers to claim refunds via a text message link.
Part of: Fake Student Tax Scams
Last reviewed: 8 June 2026
American college students and recent graduates are among the most frequently targeted groups for tax phishing. The American Opportunity Tax Credit, Lifetime Learning Credit, and student-loan interest deductions are all legitimate credits that can generate refunds, meaning many students genuinely expect money back from the IRS — making a message promising an education-credit refund feel entirely plausible.
Scam emails appear during and after tax season, bearing IRS logos and official-sounding language. They claim an education credit of several hundred dollars is available and must be claimed through a provided portal. The portal collects Social Security numbers, bank routing numbers, and sometimes FAFSA login credentials.
The IRS never sends unsolicited emails or texts directing taxpayers to claim refunds through an external link. Education credits are claimed on the tax return itself (Form 8863), and any resulting refund is processed and paid automatically through the IRS system.
How this scam works on the IRS brand
The phishing email says: 'IRS Notice: Our records show you are eligible for an unredeemed American Opportunity Credit of $387.00. Claim your refund before the filing deadline: [link].' The fake IRS site collects SSN, address, bank account number, and routing number.
Some campaigns specifically target FAFSA recipients by claiming that an overpayment or tax adjustment associated with their financial aid award has generated a credit. The FAFSA portal login page is spoofed to capture federal student aid credentials as well.
After submission, victims receive a 'refund confirmation' reference number. In reality, the fraudster files a fraudulent return using the collected data or uses the bank details to set up fraudulent direct debits.
Common red flags
- Unsolicited IRS email or text about an unclaimed education credit or student refund via a link
- Link does not go to irs.gov
- Request for SSN and bank account details together on one form
- Message references a specific dollar amount that appears precisely calculated
- Email sender address is not @irs.gov
- Claim that the credit will expire if not claimed within a deadline in the message
- FAFSA credentials requested alongside tax details
How to protect yourself
- Check your IRS refund status at irs.gov/refunds using the official 'Where's My Refund' tool
- View your tax account at irs.gov/account for genuine education-credit information
- Never provide your SSN and bank account details in response to an unsolicited message
- Education credits must be claimed on your filed tax return, not through a link
- Report the phishing email to [email protected]
- Forward smishing texts to 7726
- If personal data was submitted, report to identitytheft.gov
How to report it
- Forward phishing emails to [email protected]
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Forward smishing texts to 7726
- File an identity theft report at identitytheft.gov if SSN was submitted
- Report FAFSA-related fraud to the Department of Education's Office of Inspector General at 1-800-647-8733
Frequently asked questions
How does the IRS actually pay education tax credits?
Education credits such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit are claimed on Form 8863, filed with your annual tax return. If the credit creates a refund, the IRS pays it by direct deposit to the bank account on your return or by cheque. No separate claim step through an external link is required.
Does the IRS contact students differently from other taxpayers?
No. The IRS communicates with all taxpayers primarily by postal mail. It does not send unsolicited emails or texts about available refunds, credits, or required actions.
My school mentioned education tax benefits. Is there a legitimate IRS resource?
Yes. The IRS publication 970, 'Tax Benefits for Education', is available free at irs.gov. It explains all eligible credits and deductions. Your tax preparation software or a qualified tax professional can help you claim them correctly.