Tax professionals are expected to follow the law and act with integrity when preparing tax returns for clients. Unfortunately, not all tax preparers uphold these standards, as demonstrated by the recent case of Eunice Salley, a Chicago tax preparer who was sentenced to seven years in prison. This story reminds us that federal tax laws apply to everyone, including tax professionals. If you have failed to file a tax return for one or more years, or have filed tax returns that are knowingly false, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced criminal tax defense attorney.
Tax Preparer Sentenced After Preparing False Tax Returns
According to court documents, Salley was convicted of preparing false tax returns for clients and embezzling her deceased grandmother’s pension checks. From 2016 to 2017, she prepared and filed approximately 22 false tax returns with the IRS, reporting fictitious wages and withholdings as well as false medical, charitable, and employment-related expenses. These fraudulent returns sought more than $1 million in refunds, and Salley demanded that some clients pay her as much as 50% of their refund.
Salley was also convicted of pension fraud, as she received and deposited 33 pension checks totaling $14,131 into her own bank accounts after her grandmother’s death in 2009. She submitted fraudulent affidavits under her grandmother’s name to the pension plan administrator, claiming that her grandmother was still alive. In 2017, Salley did not report to the IRS approximately $5,000 in income from the embezzled pension checks.
In addition to her prison sentence, Salley was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay approximately $558,369 in restitution to the United States. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity when it comes to tax preparation.
Working With an Experienced Tax Lawyer to Get Right with the Government
If you have concerns about the accuracy of your tax returns or are facing legal issues related to taxes, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of a skilled tax law firm. The professionals at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing can provide guidance and representation to help resolve any issues, while protect your rights. Don’t take unnecessary risks with your financial well-being – work with a trusted and reputable tax law firm to ensure that your tax matters are handled correctly.
We Are Here for You
Regardless of your business or estate needs, the professionals at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing are here for you. We are open for business and our team will help ensure that your business is too. Contact the Law Offices of David W. Klasing today to discuss your business with one of our professionals.
In addition to our main office in Irvine, the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing has unstaffed (conference room only) satellite offices in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Panorama City, Oxnard, San Diego, Bakersfield, San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland, Carlsbad and Sacramento.
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