Question 1

Can a preparer run returns both ways to see who should claim a child?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

A preparer should apply dependency and tiebreaker rules, not shop a child between returns for the largest refund...

Question 2

What should an EA do when a client asks for a false certification?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

An EA must refuse to make a false or misleading client certification, even outside the tax return itself...

Question 3

Why are comfort letters risky for tax practitioners?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

Comfort letters are risky when they ask a tax practitioner to certify facts or future events outside the engagement...

Question 4

What is first-time penalty abatement?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

First-time penalty abatement may remove certain penalties for taxpayers with a clean compliance history...

Question 5

How can a taxpayer identify an unexpected direct deposit from the Treasury?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

Unexpected Treasury deposits should be matched to account transcripts, notices, payments, credits, and return history...

Question 6

What should a taxpayer do after intentionally leaving a W-2 off a return?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

A taxpayer who omitted a W-2 should correct the return promptly because wage matching often discovers the income...

Question 7

What happens when a taxpayer voluntarily files several delinquent returns?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

For multiple delinquent years, file accurate required returns first, then verify balances and evaluate collection options...

Question 8

What should a taxpayer do after using an unqualified ghost preparer?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

A taxpayer who used a ghost preparer should obtain the filed return, verify every item, and correct false positions...

Question 9

How should an EA approach identity theft tied to old tax debt?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

Identity-theft tax cases need a documented file with forms, notices, transcripts, proof, and contact history...

Question 10

Can a practitioner rely on an AI-generated tax calculation?

AcadiFi · Accepted Answer

A practitioner cannot outsource due diligence to a tool; confident wording is not legal authority...

Community Q&A

Can a preparer run returns both ways to see who should claim a child?