Consumers expecting a tax refund might be looking forward to filing their taxes early this year, but Better Business Bureau of Southern Arizona warns to be cautious of tax preparers who claim they can get larger refunds than their competitors.

According to IRS investigators, some preparers may use their clients’ personal information to file falsified returns, and may keep most of the fraudulent refund for themselves while leaving you on the hook.

It’s important to note that the taxpayer is ultimately responsible for the accuracy of all information on a tax return, even if someone else prepares it.  Individuals with fraudulent tax returns can face significant prison time as well as payment of back taxes with interest and penalties.

BBB recommends following these tips from the IRS:

• Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the refund.
• Use a reputable tax professional who signs the tax return and provides you a copy.
• Consider whether the individual or the tax preparation firm will be around to answer questions about the tax return months, or even years, after the return has been filed.
• Check the preparer’s credentials.  Only attorneys, certified public accountants and enrolled agents can represent taxpayers before the IRS in matters including audits, collections and appeals.
• Find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that provides its members with continuing educational resources and holds them to a code of ethics. (more…)