Tax preparer filed my taxes without permission - what are my options?

This is definitely concerning and unfortunately happens more than it should. The tax preparer has violated several professional standards and potentially tax laws. First, no tax preparer should ever file a return without your explicit consent and signature. It's actually required by law for you to sign IRS Form 8879 (e-file authorization) before a preparer can submit your return electronically. Without that signature, the filing was unauthorized. For immediate steps, you should contact the tax preparer in writing (email is fine but keep a copy) stating that you never authorized the filing and request a complete copy of what was submitted to the IRS. Also request they immediately withdraw the unauthorized return, though that may not be possible after acceptance. You'll likely need to file Form 1040X (Amended Return) to correct any errors on the unauthorized filing. The good news is that since you calculated you're due a refund, filing an amendment will likely work in your favor. As for reporting the preparer, you can file a complaint with the IRS using Form 14157 (Complaint: Tax Return Preparer). If they're a CPA, also report them to your state's board of accountancy as this violates professional standards.

After dealing with a similar nightmare with an unethical tax preparer last year, I started using taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) and it's been a lifesaver. I uploaded my documents including the incorrectly filed return, and it analyzed everything to show me exactly what was filed wrong and what deductions were missed. The system highlighted several business deductions my former preparer completely overlooked for my side hustle - things like mileage, partial utilities, and equipment depreciation. It basically created a detailed report showing what should have been filed correctly compared to what was submitted, which gave me concrete evidence to take to the IRS. I used their analysis to prepare my amended return and it completely eliminated the headache of trying to figure out what went wrong on my own. Might be worth checking out in your situation!

Just wanted to update that I tried taxr.ai after seeing it mentioned here. It was actually really helpful! I uploaded my incorrectly filed return and my expense records, and it found over $3,200 in legitimate deductions my original preparer missed for my freelance graphic design work. The analysis showed I could claim part of my internet, my design software subscription, my new laptop (using depreciation), and even some client meetings I'd forgotten about. The report was super clear about what I could legally deduct and how to document each item properly. I'm using their report to file my amended return this weekend. Definitely less stress than I expected and it looks like I'll be getting about $800 back instead of the $450 I originally owed!

If you're struggling to get anywhere with this tax preparer, you might want to give Claimyr a try (https://claimyr.com). I had a similar unauthorized filing issue last year and was getting nowhere trying to call the IRS directly - either constant busy signals or 2+ hour hold times just to get disconnected. Claimyr got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes who helped me start the process of addressing the unauthorized filing. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c The IRS agent walked me through exactly what forms I needed to submit and how to document that I never authorized the original filing. They even flagged my account with notes about the situation so when I submitted my amended return it was processed without additional questions. Dealing with unauthorized filings is stressful enough without the added frustration of not being able to reach someone who can actually help!

I owe everyone here an apology for my skepticism about Claimyr. After waiting on hold with the IRS for 3+ hours and getting disconnected TWICE last week, I was desperate enough to try it. I honestly couldn't believe it when I got a call back connecting me to an actual IRS agent after just 20 minutes. The agent was able to verify that someone had indeed filed a return using my information without authorization (turned out to be my ex-spouse, not a preparer in my case). The agent flagged my account, gave me a case number, and walked me through filing an identity theft affidavit and an amended return. They even gave me direct contact information for following up. I was 100% convinced nothing could fix the IRS phone system, but I've never been happier to be proven wrong. Saved me hours of frustration and potentially thousands in incorrect tax assessments.

As a former tax office manager (not a CPA), I can tell you this is a serious ethical violation. Beyond the great advice already given about Form 14157 and contacting your state board of accountancy, I'd recommend: 1. Call the preparer's office and speak with the managing partner or owner if it's not the same person who prepared your return 2. Formally request (in writing) a copy of all documents they submitted to the IRS 3. Ask them directly what authorization they believe they had to file your return Many tax offices have internal quality review processes, and the managing partner may be horrified to learn what happened. They might even offer to cover the costs of amending your return as well as any potential penalties. Also, $925 is extremely high for a basic W-2 plus small side business return unless your business had very complex elements you haven't mentioned. For comparison, a return like yours at many firms would range $350-550.

Has anyone considered that this might actually be a criminal matter? Filing someone's taxes without authorization could potentially be identity theft or fraud. If I were in this situation, I'd consider filing a police report, especially if the CPA refuses to acknowledge they were wrong or tries to charge you for their "service.

This is absolutely outrageous and I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. As someone who works in tax compliance, I can tell you that filing without authorization is a massive red flag that could indicate other issues with this preparer's practices. Beyond the excellent advice already given, I'd strongly recommend checking if this CPA has any other complaints against them through your state's CPA licensing board website. Many states have public databases where you can search for disciplinary actions or complaints against licensed professionals. Also, document EVERYTHING - save all your communications with this preparer, keep records of when you met with them, what was discussed, and most importantly, get a written statement that you never signed Form 8879 or any other authorization. This documentation will be crucial if you need to escalate the complaint. The fact that they completely ignored your questions about legitimate deductions while charging nearly $1000 for basic work suggests they're either incompetent or running some kind of volume operation where they rush through returns without proper attention. Either way, you deserve much better service and definitely shouldn't be stuck with their mistakes. Keep us updated on how this resolves - your experience could help other community members who might face similar situations!

This situation is absolutely unacceptable and I'm so sorry you're going through this. As a long-time community member who has seen many tax issues discussed here, I want to emphasize that what this CPA did is not just unprofessional - it's potentially illegal. The fact that he filed your return without any signed authorization is a serious violation of IRS regulations. Every legitimate tax preparer knows that Form 8879 (IRS e-file Signature Authorization) must be signed by the taxpayer before ANY electronic filing can occur. No exceptions. Beyond the excellent advice already given about filing complaints with the IRS and your state board of accountancy, I'd also suggest: 1. Request a complete copy of everything he submitted to the IRS - not just the return, but all supporting schedules and forms 2. If he used a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), note that number for your complaints 3. Consider leaving reviews on professional platforms to warn other potential clients The $925 fee for minimal work is another red flag. Combined with ignoring your legitimate questions about deductions, this suggests a pattern of poor service that other clients have likely experienced. Stay strong and don't let this preparer intimidate you. You have multiple avenues for recourse, and the fact that TurboTax showed you're due a refund instead of owing money gives you concrete evidence that his work was inadequate.

This entire situation is infuriating and I'm really glad you're taking action. As someone who's dealt with tax preparer issues before, I want to add one more important point - make sure you get a written acknowledgment from the CPA that they filed without your authorization. When you contact them (definitely do this in writing as others suggested), don't just ask for copies of what was filed. Specifically ask them to confirm in writing what authorization they believed they had to submit your return electronically. This puts them in a position where they either have to admit they had no authorization, or they have to produce documentation that doesn't exist. Also, if you're filing the amended return yourself, double-check that you're claiming all legitimate business deductions for your side income. Things like business use of your phone, any equipment purchases, professional memberships, or even business-related travel can add up quickly. Since the original preparer clearly didn't do their due diligence, you want to make sure you're getting every deduction you're entitled to. The silver lining here is that you caught this early in tax season, so you have plenty of time to get it sorted before any deadlines. And honestly, the fact that you're potentially getting a refund instead of owing money makes this a much stronger case for preparer misconduct. Keep fighting this - you're absolutely in the right and this preparer needs to be held accountable for their actions.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this nightmare situation. What happened to you is a serious breach of professional ethics and IRS regulations. No tax preparer should EVER file a return without your explicit written authorization - this is absolutely not normal or acceptable. Based on what you've described, here are the key steps I'd recommend taking immediately: 1. **Document everything** - Write down all details of your interactions with this CPA while they're fresh in your memory. Save any texts, emails, or notes from your meeting. 2. **Contact the preparer in writing** - Send an email (keep a copy) demanding they explain what authorization they believed they had to file your return and requesting complete copies of everything submitted to the IRS. 3. **File Form 1040X** - You'll need to file an amended return to correct the errors. Since you calculated a refund instead of owing money, this actually strengthens your case that the original filing was inadequate. 4. **Report the misconduct** - File IRS Form 14157 to report the preparer, and contact your state's CPA licensing board. This behavior likely violates multiple professional standards. The $925 fee for such minimal work that ignored your legitimate deduction questions is another red flag. A basic return with simple side business income should cost much less, and any competent preparer would have explored the deductions you specifically asked about. You're absolutely doing the right thing by fighting this. Don't let this preparer's misconduct cost you money you don't actually owe!