Beware of Tax Preparers That File with your Last Paycheck Stub

Every year I have clients come to me and ask if I can file their return with their last paycheck stub.  This usually happens at the end of the year; clients are in a rush to get their refunds and they have heard TV and Radio Commercials about companies filing returns and giving them FAST CASH with their last paycheck stub.  

I hate to turn them down or ask them to wait but often the last paycheck stub does not match your w-2 and an amendment will need to be filed once your W-2 is received.  More work for me, additional fees for you, and possibly a trigger for the IRS to audit you.  The IRS is prohibiting tax preparers from E-filing returns with out proper documentation unless Form 4852 has been completed and signed by you.  

If your tax preparer does not have you complete and sign this form beware.  Your preparer is not is operating in accordance with current tax laws.

It is always best to use your actual w-2, 1099, etc... because this is what the IRS has received from your employer.  If the amounts on your Form 4852 are not correct it could throw up a red flag to the IRS and trigger an audit of not only your current year returns but prior years as well.  

Do your best to file your returns with the proper documents to ensure you do not put yourself at risk for an IRS Audit.

Tami Highbaugh-Abdullah
Tax Accountant
317.345.4182
Tami@highbaughtax.com