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Ghost Tax Preparers: How to Spot and Avoid Tax Scams

Tax season is a busy time for individuals and small business owners in the greater Orlando area. While you might be looking for a quick solution to get your filing done, it is critical to ensure you are working with a legitimate tax professional. One major threat to watch out for is the "ghost preparer."

What is a Ghost Preparer?

A ghost preparer is a paid individual who prepares your tax return but refuses to sign it. Legally, any professional charging a fee must sign the return and provide their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Unscrupulous ghost preparers often try to fly under the radar by printing the return and telling you to mail it as if you prepared it yourself.

Professional accountant reviewing tax data on a computer

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Why They Are Dangerous

These scammers often fabricate tax benefits or inflate deductions to get you a larger refund, justifying their high fees. However, once the IRS detects the fraud, the ghost preparer is long gone, leaving you solely responsible for the back taxes, interest, and penalties.

At Sandra Stearns CPA, we pride ourselves on accountability and trust. Led by Sandra Stearns with over 38 years of experience, we sign every return we prepare. Whether you need help with individual taxes or business compliance, you can trust us to stand by our work.

Watch the video below to learn more about protecting yourself from ghost preparers.

Schedule a Free Consultation
Let's set you up for financial success!
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