(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - The Better Business Bureau is warning taxpayers to be on alert for so-called "ghost" tax preparers as the April filing deadline approaches.
Ghost preparers are individuals who offer tax preparation services but lack a required Preparer Tax Identification Number, or PTIN, which the IRS has mandated for paid preparers since 2006. These operators often advertise unusually large or fast refunds and may charge low fees.
Because they cannot legally sign tax returns, ghost preparers typically instruct clients to sign and submit the return themselves, making it appear self-filed. The BBB cautions that this leaves taxpayers fully responsible for any errors, omissions, penalties, or interest -- even if the preparer made the mistake.
Officials advise using only certified tax professionals who sign returns and include their PTIN. Taxpayers should also ensure refunds are deposited directly into their own bank accounts, not into a preparer's account.
More information on identifying fraudulent tax preparers is available on the Better Business Bureau's website.