Key takeaways
|
The Michigan Department of Treasury has issued a warning about a new phishing scam targeting state taxpayers. For the past few weeks, Michigan taxpayers have been receiving text messages that falsely claim to be from the Treasury. These messages attempt to trick recipients into providing or “updating” their bank account information under the pretense of processing a tax refund.
According to state officials, the Michigan Department of Treasury does not send unsolicited text messages requesting personal or financial details. All legitimate communications related to tax refunds, balances due, or other tax matters are delivered by mail through the U.S. Postal Service.
How the scam works
The scam texts typically claim that your refund has been approved and request that you provide accurate payment information by a certain deadline. The message may warn that failure to act will result in “permanent forfeiture” of the refund, citing a fabricated section of Michigan tax code.
Here is an example of one of those texts:
Michigan Department of Treasury
Your refund request has been processed and approved.
Please provide accurate payment information by September 21, 2025.
Funds will be deposited into your bank account or mailed to you via paper check within 1–2 business days.
https://michigan.safety-paytz.vip/refund
- Failure to submit the required payment information by September 21, 2025, will result in permanent forfeiture of this refund under Michigan Tax Code §5747.11.
Reply “Y”, then close and reopen this message to activate the link.
If the issue persists, copy the link and paste it directly into your browser.
Michigan Department of Treasury | Lansing, Michigan | Official State Government Agency
The texts may also include a link to a fake website that appears legitimate but is designed to steal sensitive information. Some messages even instruct recipients to reply to activate the link, adding another layer of deception and risk, because a reply may seem like a reasonable response.
What taxpayers should do
Be vigilant when it comes to SMS text message communications. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Do not click links, reply, or share information
- The safest course of action is to delete the message immediately.
- Verify through official channels
- If you are unsure about your refund status or other tax matters, call the Michigan Department of Treasury’s Individual Income Tax Information Line at 517-636-4486.
- Report the scam
- Alerting the Treasury to these fraudulent messages helps them track and address ongoing scams.
Protecting yourself and your finances
Scammers often use urgency and fear to pressure individuals into taking quick action. By staying vigilant and confirming any suspicious communications directly with the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxpayers can help protect their personal and financial information.
UHY clients with questions or concerns about this scam are encouraged to reach out to their engagement team. For additional details, visit the official alert on the Michigan Department of Treasury website.
Have a Question?
Complete this form to ask our professionals a question.
By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by UHY.
Authors
LONI WINKLER
Partner, UHY LLP Managing Director, UHY Advisors
Loni Winkler is the leader of the tax practice in the Great Lakes region and has 20 years of experience in public accounting. She has extensive experience in corporate and flow-through entity federal and multi-state taxations, and provides professional attest, tax and business consulting services to privately held businesses. In addition, Loni monitors client tax reporting requirements, tax law changes, application and liabilities and assists business owners, CFOs and controllers in developing and implementing innovative business strategies to minimize risk, maximize profits, preserve wealth, and reduce taxes.
TODD TIGGES
Partner, UHY LLP Managing Director, UHY Advisors
Todd Tigges is the leader of the firm’s national cannabis practice and a leader in the Great Lakes tax practice. He specializes in working with clients that have multiple related entities, all structured to maximize their tax benefits and preserve wealth. Todd has extensive knowledge in tax compliance issues; federal, state and local tax planning; multiple state apportionment and compliance; business forecasts and projections; and strategic planning. He manages a team of professionals who provide tax solutions that enable middle-market companies to minimize their tax liability.