IRS Warns Of Tax Season Scams In Ohio

OHIO — The IRS is urging Ohioans to file accurate tax returns and to carefully choose their tax preparation agent.

Tax season starts Friday when the IRS will begin accepting 2020 tax returns. Anyone who willfully hides income from the IRS will be investigated, the agency warned. Anyone who commits fraud could face jail time and fines.

“Most Americans file accurate, honest, and timely tax returns,” said Bryant Jackson, special agent in charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office. “IRS CI is committed to pursuing those who intentionally file false tax returns.”

More than half of Americans use a tax preparation agency. While most firms do honest work, the IRS warns that some con artists will try to take advantage of tax season.

The IRS offers the following tips on choosing a tax preparer:

• Look for a preparer who is available year-round in case questions arise after the filing season.

• Ask if the preparer has an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which is required for paid preparers.

• Inquire about the preparer’s credentials and check their qualifications.

• Ask about service fees. Avoid preparers who base fees on a percentage of their client’s refund or claim to offer a bigger refund than their competition.

• Never sign a blank or incomplete return and review it before signing. Refunds should go directly to the taxpayer, not the preparer.