We all wish we could receive a nice refund on our tax returns. Unfortunately, the fraudsters know this and often are disguised as Tax Preparers aka “Ghost Preparers”.
Warning Signs
- Guarantee you a bigger refund.
- Significant fee to prepare your return which is based on a percentage of your return.
- Request to pay in cash.
- Convincing you to deposit your refund to the tax preparers bank account.
- Tell you all they need are your paystubs.
- Tell you about tax credits or benefits that you qualify for, but these are bogus claims.
- Make up income or tax deductions.
- Tell you there is no need for you or them to sign the return.
The Aftermath
- Once your return has been filed, they disappear leaving you to deal with the following:
- Stolen Refunds – the big return they promised you is now theirs.
- Follow-up actions from the IRS.
- Stolen identity - they have all of your information so they can easily impersonate you.
Don't be a victim
- Always use a reputable and professional service provider to prepare your return. Remember you are providing them with all of your personal information. Don’t let it fall into the wrong hands.
- Do not respond to texts or emails related to Tax Returns.
- Click here to learn more about finding a reputable tax professional.