Tax Season 2023: IRS warns of questionable tax preparers ahead of tax filing deadline

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a new warning to taxpayers about potential scams ahead of the tax filing deadline. The focus of this alert is on “unscrupulous” tax return preparers, and the IRS is urging taxpayers to be cautious and look out for any warning signs when dealing with them.

Some of the red flags to watch out for include preparers who charge fees based on the size of the refund and “ghost” preparers who refuse to sign the tax return or ask taxpayers to sign a blank return. To ensure your information is safe and your taxes are being handled correctly, the IRS recommends using a trusted tax professional instead of risking fraud or waste.

Taxpayers should take several steps before choosing a tax preparer, including checking if the professional has an IRS preparer tax identification number, which is required for them to prepare taxes. Ultimately, the taxpayer’s needs should determine the best tax preparer for them, and the IRS advises selecting a professional on a case-by-case basis.

The IRS’s latest warning is a continuation of its “Dirty Dozen” series, which aims to warn taxpayers about scams that become more prevalent during tax season. Previous warnings in the series include phishing emails and scammers offering “help” to set up an online IRS account.

The tax filing deadline this year is April 18, and this deadline also applies to the filing of an extension to file taxes. For more information on the tax scams that the IRS has warned about, visit the IRS website.

While most tax professionals offer excellent advice and can help with complex tax issues, taxpayers should remain vigilant and choose a preparer wisely to avoid potential waste, fraud, or scams.

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