Source: https://klasing-associates.com/criminal-tax-defense/tax-preparer-fraud/
Timestamp: 2019-04-23 05:58:14+00:00

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Preparers of tax returns and claims for refunds are held to a high standard of conduct when preparing tax documents. The law exacts penalties for a violation of those standards and puts accounting professions at risk for tax preparer fraud.
For example, 26 U.S.C. § 6694 imposes standards of return preparation; § 6695 contains disclosure and signature requirements with respect to returns; and § 7206(2) provides that a preparer who willfully aids and assists in the preparation of a false return may be charged with a felony. Preparers are also required to comply with IRS Circular 230.
What is Tax Preparer Fraud?
Unlike a criminal tax evasion case, where the taxpayer inflates his expenses or conceals income, preparer fraud occurs when the tax preparer himself commits the fraud. Often this is a professional like a CPA, but it need not be. The definition of a “preparer” is maximally broad, including “any person who prepares for compensation… any return.” 26 U.S.C. 7701(a)(36)(emphasis added).
Tax preparers are subject to criminal or civil liability for aiding another to commit tax fraud or evasion. If certain conditions are met, it may even result in a felony, the imputation of liability to the preparer’s firm, and/or the permanent loss of one’s license to practice as a preparer. Often one’s existing clients are notified of the charge against the preparer, which could spell financial and social ruin for the tax preparer.
It has been held that any misstatement of a material fact is sufficient to constitute a violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2), even if it does not result in a loss of revenue to the government. See Edwards v United States, 375 F.2d 862 (9th Cir. 1967)(holding that the offense to which § 7206(2) is directed is the falsification and the counseling and procuring of such deception as to any material matter, rather than the actual defeat of a tax liability).
To convict for tax preparer fraud, it must be shown that they willfully making a false material statement on a return, and the government must show each of the following beyond a reasonable doubt. Competent counsel is will make it as difficult as possible for the government to prove its case against you.
the preparer made the statement “willfully” (with intent to violate a legal duty).
Kawashima v. Holder, 10-577, 2012 WL 538277 (U.S. Feb. 21, 2012). A violation of 26 U.S.C. §7206(1) may result in a fine of $100,000 (or $500,000 for a corporation), and imprisonment up to 3 years.
Whether a false statement is “material” is not determined by an easy rule. Instead it is determined on a facts-and-circumstances basis. Competent legal counsel will be able to inform you whether your misstatement is material, and, to avoid more severe penalties, whether it would be advisable to disclose to the IRS the misstatement before it is discovered on its own. At the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, our Orange County tax fraud attorneys can also assist in the process of making a voluntary disclosure.
Failing to sign a tax return. 26 U.S.C. § 6695(b).
Disclosing or using a taxpayer’s return information for purposes other than to prepare the taxpayer’s return. 26 U.S.C. § 6713(a).
Failing to include their tax identification number on tax returns. 26 U.S.C. § 6695(c).
Failing to provide the taxpayer with a copy of the tax return. 26 U.S.C. § 6695(a).
Filing to exercise due diligence in assessing a taxpayer’s eligibility for, or amount of, the earned income credit. 26 U.S.C. § 6695(g).
Aiding and abetting a taxpayer to report an understatement of her tax liability. 26 U.S.C. § 6701.
Promoting a tax shelter. 26 U.S.C. § 6700.
Making a gross valuation misstatement in an appraisal. 26 U.S.C. § 6662A.
Need help or have a Tax Preparer Fraud Question? Contact us!
Our Office has developed national practice as to criminal federal income tax issues administered and prosecuted by the IRS, so no matter what state you are from we can effectively defend you. It is sometimes said that while the focus of an accountant is accuracy, the focus of an attorney is advocacy. Our Office’s expertise and training combines both fields: We place a premium on both accuracy and client advocacy. Contact me online or call 800.681.1295 to speak to a tax preparer fraud attorney to discuss your case.

References: § 6694
 § 6695
 § 7206
 § 7206
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 §7206
 § 6695
 § 6713
 § 6695
 § 6695
 § 6695
 § 6701
 § 6700
 § 6662