If you’ve had a negative experience with a tax preparer—whether it involves errors, fraud, or suspicious behavior—you’re not alone. The good news is: you can take action, and doing so helps protect both yourself and other taxpayers.
Before filing a complaint, it’s important to recognize red flags. A questionable tax preparer may:
- Refuse to sign your tax return
- Ask you to sign a blank or incomplete return
- Promise unusually large refunds without reviewing your documents
- Fail to provide you with a copy of your completed return
If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s time to act.
Step 1: Gather Your Documentation
Start by collecting all relevant records. This will strengthen your complaint and help investigators review your case efficiently.
Be sure to gather:
- A copy of your tax return
- Any contracts, invoices, or receipts
- Emails, texts, or other communications with the preparer
Step 2: File a Complaint with CTEC (California Residents)
If you’re in California, you can file a complaint directly through the CTEC website.
CTEC works in partnership with the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) to investigate and penalize noncompliant tax preparers. All complaints are forwarded to the FTB’s Tax Preparer Enforcement Team.
Key things to know:
- Anonymous complaints are accepted
- Your report helps identify patterns of misconduct
- You may help prevent others from becoming victims
Step 3: Report the Preparer to the IRS
You can also report misconduct to the IRS using the following forms:
- Form 14157 – Complaint against a tax preparer
- Form 14157-A – Used if you suspect fraud or unauthorized changes to your return
Filing with the IRS ensures the issue is reviewed at the federal level.
Step 4: Monitor and Protect Your Tax Records
After submitting your complaint:
- Watch for any notices from the IRS or FTB
- Consider having your return reviewed or amended by a qualified, credentialed tax professional
- Take precautions if you suspect identity theft or fraud
Will You Get in Trouble for Reporting?
No. Submitting a complaint with the IRS or the FTB will not get you into trouble. Reports are handled confidentially, and the goal is to address misconduct—not penalize taxpayers who were taken advantage of.
Reporting a bad tax preparer does more than resolve your situation—it helps maintain integrity in the tax system. Your action can prevent scams, protect other taxpayers, and hold unethical preparers accountable.
