Ask for your tax preparer's PTIN to avoid being ghosted later and facing the IRS alone

"Ghost" tax preparers not only waste filers' funds, but these schemes can cause serious problems in the long run. A "ghost tax preparer" is someone who isn't certified but still prepares tax returns. They may set up shop quickly and promise fast or big refunds.

In 2006, the IRS introduced the Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) requirement to enhance oversight of tax preparers. But some ghost preparers find a way around it by not signing the returns they file. But this system only works if tax preparers sign the returns they file. Ghost preparers prepare the tax return, but when it's submitted to the IRS, they ask the taxpayer to sign their own return, making it look like it was self-filed.

According to the IRS, “The ghost preparer can print the paper return for their client and tell them to sign and mail it to the IRS. Or, for electronically filed returns, they will prepare it but won’t digitally sign it as the paid preparer.”

This doesn't seem like a big deal, until something goes wrong, and the preparer is nowhere to be found. Since the return is technically self-filed, the taxpayer is liable for any errors or omissions the ghost preparer made, including underpayment and negligence penalties, which often happens because the large refund promised was not accurate in the first place. By law, anyone who prepares or even assists with preparing federal tax returns for compensation must have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Tax preparers should sign the tax returns they prepare and include their PTIN on the tax return.

6 tips to stay safe and avoid being ghosted by a tax preparer.

• Be wary of those offering fast refunds or large returns. If someone promises quick refunds or big returns, be careful. Your return amount, deduction amount, or taxes owed are solely based on your past year's tax information and the current tax laws. The time it will take to receive your refund or tax notice will depend entirely upon the IRS.

• Don't sign your own tax return if asked by a tax preparer. Never sign your own tax return if someone else prepared it. Legit preparers will sign it and include their PTIN.

• Review your tax return. Before you send it, look through your tax return to make sure it was signed properly by your tax preparer, that it’s complete, and that your information appears to be accurate.

• Only allow funds to be deposited into your personal accounts. Some ghost preparers will have funds deposited into their own accounts "to be later distributed." That can be a red flag.

• Do your research. Check BBB.org for complaints and reviews on tax services in your area. Be cautious of "pop-ups" and seasonal tax services. Don't be afraid to ask about their processes, credentials, and for their PTIN. The IRS has resources to help you check those credentials.

• Report unusual activity. If you see a ghost tax preparer or think something isn't right, tell your local BBB or use BBB's Scam Tracker.

Doing taxes can be confusing, and tax scams are common during tax season, but you don't want to get tricked by a ghost tax preparer. BBB wants to help you stay safe during tax season, so ask questions, be careful, and report anything that seems strange.

For more information and to learn how to protect yourself, Google “BBB 10 Steps to Avoid Scams.” If you spot a scam, whether you have lost money or not, report it to BBB’s Scam Tracker at BBB.org/ScamTracker and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Your story can help protect consumers from similar scams.

Rick Walz is the President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Consumer Advocate: Avoid being ghosted by your tax preparer