Beware of Fraudulent Tax Preparers: Protect Yourself This Tax Season

🚨 Beware of Fraudulent Tax Preparers: Protect Yourself This Tax Season 🚨

Tax season is stressful enough without the added risk of fraudulent tax preparers. Every year, unsuspecting taxpayers fall victim to scams, hidden fees, and even identity theft at the hands of shady tax preparers who promise big refunds but leave clients in financial and legal trouble.

At Rae’s Accounting, we believe in honest, ethical, and transparent tax services, so let’s talk about how to spot a fraudulent tax preparer and protect yourself this tax season.

Red Flags of a Fraudulent Tax Preparer 🚩

If your tax preparer does any of the following, consider it a major red flag:

🔴 Guarantees a HUGE refund before even reviewing your documents

• No legitimate tax professional can promise a refund without assessing your finances.

🔴 Charges fees based on a percentage of your refund

• This creates an incentive for them to inflate your numbers, putting you at risk of an IRS audit.

🔴 Asks you to sign a blank tax return

• Never, ever sign a return without reviewing it carefully. This is how fraudulent preparers commit tax fraud in your name.

🔴 Refuses to provide their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)

• The IRS requires all paid preparers to have a PTIN. If they can’t provide one, walk away.

🔴 Deposits your refund into their own account before sending it to you

• Your refund should always go directly to you, not through a third-party account.

What Happens If You Use a Fraudulent Tax Preparer?

The IRS holds you responsible for your tax return—even if a preparer files it on your behalf. That means if fraudulent numbers are reported, you could face penalties, audits, or even legal trouble.

How to Find a Trustworthy Tax Preparer ✅

✔️ Look for a credentialed professional – Enrolled Agents (EAs), CPAs, and tax attorneys are all certified experts.
✔️ Check for a PTIN – Verify their credentials on the IRS website.
✔️ Ask about their fee structure upfront – Avoid percentage-based fees.
✔️ Read reviews and ask for referrals – A good preparer will have a strong reputation.

Rae’s Accounting: Your Trusted Tax Partner

At Rae’s Accounting, we’re not just here to file your taxes—we’re here to help you stay compliant, maximize your deductions legally, and avoid costly mistakes. We take pride in being a firm you can trust, with ethical, experienced tax professionals who always have your best interests at heart.

🚨 If you have any doubts about a tax preparer, get a second opinion before signing anything. 🚨

💼 Ready for a tax professional you can trust? Contact Rae’s Accounting today to ensure your taxes are done right, ethically, and stress-free.