HARTFORD — The Department of Consumer Protection and the Department of Revenue Services are warning the public about scammers pretending to be professional tax accountants and firms for the upcoming tax season.
“As we approach the tax season, all taxpayers are obligated to file a correct and timely tax return,” said DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. “Taxpayers should start their research by reading reviews and checking the accountants’ credentials. A hasty decision in choosing a fake tax preparer can lead to stolen information, an incomplete tax return, and a bigger headache than if you’d simply done your taxes yourself.”
“While most tax preparers provide a great service to their clients, we advise taxpayers to remain vigilant when hiring a tax professional,” said Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton. “Some key warning signs to look out for include tax preparers who charge a fee based on the size of the refund, as well as those who are unwilling to sign your return. Protect your tax information – and your refund – by hiring reputable tax pros to help you this tax season.”
When searching for a tax preparer and/or accounting firm, a taxpayer should:
- Verify the credentials: Use eLicense to check if the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) has an active license or that the CPA firm is registered.
- If the individual is a Paid Tax Preparer, taxpayers should contact CT’s Department of Revenue Services, to verify their license.
- Individuals with a CPA Certificate Registration cannot sign tax documents. Only those with a CPA license are able to sign tax documents.
- All firms, including home offices, must have a Certified Public Accountancy Firm Permit to practice in Connecticut.
- Watch out for promises that are too good to be true: Be skeptical of tax preparers promising to get you a massive refund fast. Deals that seem too good to be true are red flags.
- Read the reviews: Look up the name of the tax preparer or firm followed by the words “review” or “complaint.” Taxpayers can also contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for complaints. Check the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy’s website to verify enrolled CPAs.
- Use a referral: Ask a family member or friend for a tax preparer recommendation. Use a tax professional who is local and available all year, in case questions arise.
- Avoid “ghost” tax preparers: “Ghost” tax preparers are individuals that complete a tax return without signing it or identifying themselves. They may have a taxpayer sign the form, promising to “handle the rest.”
- Never sign a blank form. You should always thoroughly review the tax return before signing, as you are responsible for the information.
- Look for Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) or BBB Seal: All tax professionals must have a PTIN and include it with their signature. Real tax professionals will provide this number without resistance. For tax firms, look for the Better Business Bureau (BBB) seal on the website.
In 2024, the State Board of Accountancy received 51 complaints. The 5 most common complaints include:
- Tax filing errors
- Unlicensed Certified Public Accountants or Certified Public Accountancy Firms
- Professional Misconduct
- Billing Issues (i.e., falsified a bill to the consumer)
- Client Records Not Returned
Employers must distribute W-2 forms by January 31, and the deadline to file taxes is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Employees should begin preparing and researching local tax professionals now. Taxpayers should hire a professional early to ensure their tax return is submitted by the deadline.
Consumers that would like to file a complaint related to a tax preparer can email DCP at dcp.complaints@ct.gov or visit ct.gov/DCP/complaint to file a complaint online. For additional tax-related complaints, consumers can contact the Frauds Unit at the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services or the IRS.