"Ghost" Tax Return Preparers

The following IRS News Release as well as a related IRS Tax Tip on choosing a tax preparer support the concern the IRS has about unethical tax return preparers who adversely impact taxpayers and unfortunately tarnish the reputation of the tax profession. We support the ethical credentialed, registered and Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) record of completion preparers and practitioners who assist taxpayers with their filing and paying tax compliance.

Do you know someone who had a tax return prepared by a “ghost tax preparer”? Maybe it’s…

• a new client looking for help after receiving a letter or notice from the IRS.
• a small business owner trying to get a loan, but when questioned about their return, they admit what’s reported isn’t really true.
• a member of the community bragging about the huge refund they got.

 
The IRS is looking for victims of “ghost tax preparers” who are willing to share their experiences.

• The IRS can provide guidance, ethical tax practitioners can help clean up the mess, but people telling their stories of how they were harmed make the biggest difference in touching others.
  • We know this can be embarrassing.
  • We acknowledge these “ghost tax preparers” are often someone they were referred to, who are in their community.
  • We’re hoping that people knowing they can make a difference in protecting those who could otherwise suffer the same consequences will be motived to come forward.    

 
Who can you reach out to with this information?

• Please email or call Stakeholder Liaison Gerry Kelly-Brenner at Geraldine.Kelly-Brenner@irs.gov or 510‑907-5341 to discuss this further.
• If the person wants to remain anonymous in sharing their experience, we will support them in their request.