Rossen Reports: IRS warning about "ghost" tax preparers. Here's how to spot them
Tax season is here, and scammers are targeting taxpayers with a new scheme involving "ghost" tax preparers.
The IRS recently issued an urgent warning about these fraudsters.
Ghost tax preparers pose as professionals, prepare your tax return, and even make it look official. But when it’s time to file, they vanish, leaving you to sign and submit the return yourself.
If there’s an error or issue, the IRS holds you accountable, and the scammer is nowhere to be found.
To protect yourself, the IRS advises checking credentials. Legitimate tax preparers have a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). Always demand a completed, signed return before paying, as real preparers sign your return and include their PTIN.
Be wary of anyone guaranteeing a massive refund without reviewing your financial details or charging fees based on your refund amount.
Stay vigilant to avoid falling victim to these scams.