Watch out for fraudulent tax preparers, feds warn

There’s a consumer alert for anyone who still needs to file their taxes.

The Department of Justice on Thursday put out a warning, telling people to be careful of who they choose to prepare and file their taxes.

In fact, tax preparer fraud is one of the IRS’ Dirty Dozen Tax Scams.

The reason this is so important: If your tax preparer includes errors or false information on your return, you could be liable and face serious fines.

So what can you do?

The IRS has information on choosing a tax preparer and has a free directory of federal tax preparers that you can go through online.

The IRS also has information on how to avoid so-called ghost tax preparers. Those people will fill out your return but refuse to sign it. They may tell you to print, sign and return it. The IRS says that should be a red flag to you

Another resource is IRS Free File, which offers free online tax prep.

A reminder: The deadline to file your taxes is Monday, May 17. It was pushed back this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.