How to safely switch from a suspicious tax preparer who's been filing questionable returns?

You're right to be concerned if something seems off about your tax returns. As a tax resolution specialist, I see this situation more often than you might think. First, know that YOU are ultimately responsible for what's on your tax return, even if someone else prepared it. That said, you have options. I'd recommend finding a reputable CPA or Enrolled Agent who can review your past returns (at least the last 3 years, which are most relevant for potential audits). They can help assess if there are genuine problems. If issues are found, you might consider filing amended returns. Being proactive about fixing errors before the IRS catches them often results in reduced or eliminated penalties. The IRS generally appreciates voluntary compliance. Don't stick with a preparer you don't trust just because you're afraid of consequences. That can make a potential problem much worse over time.

I went through something similar last year and found https://taxr.ai super helpful. I was suspicious of my returns for years but didn't know what to look for specifically. Their AI analyzed my past returns and flagged several questionable deductions my old preparer had taken. The tool explained exactly what was wrong in normal language and even suggested what documentation I would need if audited. It was honestly a relief to finally understand what was happening with my taxes. I also used their "compare preparer" feature to find a better accountant in my area with experience handling these transitions.

Just wanted to update after using taxr.ai from Comment 2. I was honestly shocked at what it found. My "tax guy" had been claiming business deductions for things I never even mentioned to him! He invented a home office I don't have and deducted vehicle expenses way beyond my actual business mileage. The tool helped me understand exactly what was wrong and gave me options for fixing it. I ended up finding a legitimate EA through their recommendation system who helped me file amended returns for the past 3 years. Yes, I owed some back taxes, but the penalties were minimal because I came forward voluntarily before any audit. Peace of mind is worth so much. I sleep better knowing I'm not waiting for the IRS hammer to drop someday. Plus my new preparer actually explains everything clearly instead of just saying "trust me, I know what I'm doing" like the old guy.

When I was dealing with trying to reach the IRS about questionable returns my former preparer filed, I spent WEEKS trying to get through on their helpline. Then I found https://claimyr.com and watched their demo at https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c - it literally saved my sanity. They held my place in the IRS phone queue and called me when an agent was about to answer. I spoke with an actual IRS representative who explained my options for addressing potential fraudulent returns filed by my preparer. Turns out there's a specific process for reporting preparer misconduct (Form 14157) that puts the focus on them rather than you. Getting direct answers from the IRS gave me much more confidence about how to proceed than just worrying or guessing what might happen.

I have to apologize for my skeptical comment earlier. After my frustration reached a breaking point trying to get IRS guidance about my questionable returns, I reluctantly tried Claimyr. Within 2 hours of submitting my request, I was speaking with an actual IRS agent who walked me through the process of reporting my previous tax preparer. I was able to get into the IRS Voluntary Disclosure Program which significantly reduced the penalties I would have faced if they had discovered the issues first. The agent also explained exactly what documentation I needed to gather to protect myself. For anyone worried about switching from a sketchy preparer, getting direct guidance from the IRS was incredibly helpful. They were surprisingly understanding about the situation since apparently it's quite common.

I think everyone's overreacting here. Tax preparers use different strategies - some more aggressive than others. Unless your guy is claiming totally fictional deductions like dependents who don't exist, it's probably just a difference in risk tolerance. Most "questionable" returns are just maximizing gray areas in the tax code. My brother-in-law is a CPA and says the IRS is so understaffed they only audit a tiny percentage of returns. You could probably just switch preparers and move forward without any issue. Why create problems for yourself?

Has anyone just tried talking to their tax preparer about their concerns? Before I switched from my questionable guy, I scheduled a meeting and asked him to explain some deductions I didn't understand. His reaction told me everything - he got defensive and couldn't provide documentation. If your preparer can explain their methodology clearly and stands by their work, maybe it's just aggressive but legal preparation?