LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) — The IRS warns taxpayers and return preparers of scams this tax season after $2.12 billion in tax fraud was committed in fiscal year 2024.

In Louisiana, tax preparers face criminal convictions for filing false tax returns.

Kathryn Mobley, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Acadiana, said a red flag clients can look for when choosing a preparer, is if they are offered an excessive refund.

“You definitely want to make sure the tax preparer has their tax preparer identification number,” Mobley said. “So, definitely look that up before…you’re giving all your personal information to somebody.”

Mobley recommends clients to look for the BBB accreditation when choosing tax professionals.

Tax professionals are also being scammed. Scammers are sending emails to tax return preparers pretending to be new clients. Inside the email is a link that infiltrates malware into their computer.

“It takes over your computer,” Mobley said. “Anyone can really get taken advantage of.”

Here’s you can avoid tax scams:

• Don’t respond to unsolicited emails, phone calls or texts. Scammers impersonate tax professionals and clients, so directly contact professionals and clients yourself.
• Choose reputable tax return preparers. Choose someone who will sign and enter their preparer tax identification number on tax forms and don’t promise you excessive refunds.
• Rely on the IRS. Go to the IRS directly with any questions about tax forms and eligibility for credits and deductions.

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