LEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is trying to remind the public about tax-related scams during this busy tax season.
The Sheriff’s Office says certain people use the tax-filing process to commit fraudulent and criminal acts.
They are asking that you choose your tax-preparer carefully!
Tax preparers should not ask you to sign a blank return, promising to complete it at a later date.
The law requires anyone who is paid to prepare or assist in preparing a tax return must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and must sign and include their PTIN on all returns.
“Ghost” preparers…
Ghost preparers don't sign the tax returns they prepare. They may print the tax return and tell the taxpayer to sign and mail it to the IRS.
For e-filed returns, the ghost preparer will prepare but not digitally sign as the paid preparer.
To better understand Tax Return Preparer Credentials and qualifications, click here.
