Choosing someone to prepare your taxes means trusting them with your income, family information and financial records. Before discussing the size of a possible refund, ask a simpler question: “Will you sign my return as the paid preparer?”

That conversation can help you identify a serious warning sign before you authorize a filing.

Before you hire a tax preparer: ghost-preparer warning signs and questions about signatures, PTINs and reviewing your return.
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What is a ghost preparer?

A ghost preparer prepares a return for payment but refuses to sign it or include a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number, commonly called a PTIN. The IRS warns that taxpayers remain legally responsible for what is filed. Never sign a blank or incomplete return. [1]

The signature and PTIN requirements are existing obligations. They were not newly created by the recent watchdog report.

What the October report found

In its October 21, 2026 report, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, or TIGTA, identified approximately $179 million in refund claims associated with potentially fraudulent returns linked to ghost preparers. [2]

The approximately $179 million represents refunds requested, not an established total of money stolen or paid out. The findings identify potentially fraudulent activity; they do not establish criminal guilt.

For a taxpayer, the useful lesson is to check who takes responsibility for preparing the return and whether its numbers reflect real records.

Credentials and ghost preparation are different questions

A preparer does not become a ghost preparer simply because they are not a CPA or Enrolled Agent. The IRS recognizes that paid preparers have different qualifications and levels of expertise. [3]

Its public directory includes preparers with specified credentials or qualifications, rather than every valid PTIN holder. Absence from that directory alone does not prove misconduct. Ask about training, experience and the services offered. [4]

Tax preparation and representation in an IRS dispute also deserve separate questions. Ask what assistance is included if a notice arrives and whether another professional would be needed.

Questions to ask before hiring

Use these questions as a starting point for your conversation:

  • Who will prepare my return, and who will sign it?
  • Will a valid PTIN appear in the paid-preparer section?
  • Have you handled income and filing situations like mine?
  • What records do you need before recommending deductions or credits?
  • What will the service cost, and what does that fee include?
  • Can we review the completed return together before I authorize filing?
  • How will I receive my copy and contact you after filing season?

For an Indiana household or business owner, also ask who will review the applicable state and county information. Make sure the engagement covers the returns you actually need.

Warning signs deserve a pause

The IRS warns about preparers who promise large refunds through unsupported deductions or credits. Refusing to sign, omitting the PTIN, or asking you to authorize an unfinished return should stop the process. [1]

For example, imagine being offered a larger refund by adding expenses you never incurred. Ask for an explanation tied to your records. If the explanation depends on invented facts, do not authorize that return.

A useful final review is to compare the income, deductions and credits with the documents you supplied. Ask about unfamiliar entries instead of assuming the software must be right.

If you are concerned about an existing return

Keep your copy of the return, payment receipt and relevant communications. Have the questionable entries reviewed before deciding what correction is needed. The IRS provides a complaint route for improper tax-preparation practices; its ghost-preparer warning links to that process. [1]

Start with a clear conversation

Chervil LLC can help you discuss your filing needs and organize the information needed for preparation.

Contact Kayode Kosemani, professional tax preparer, at 317-488-0021 or sayhi2ky@chervilllc.com.

General educational information; individual filing and representation needs depend on the facts.

Related reading for business owners

Does your business issue information returns? Read Does Your Business File 1099s? Prepare for the IRS Move to IRIS.

Sources

  1. IRS ghost-preparer warning.
  1. TIGTA report dated October 21, 2026.
  1. IRS choosing a tax professional.
  1. IRS preparer-directory FAQs.