What is a warning sign of an untrustworthy tax preparer?

Promising large refunds is a significant warning sign of an untrustworthy tax preparer because it indicates a lack of professionalism and ethical standards. Legitimate tax preparers cannot guarantee specific refund amounts due to the variability of individual financial situations and the complexity of tax laws. Refunds depend on numerous factors, including income, deductions, credits, and overall tax liability. A preparer making such promises may be resorting to unethical tactics, such as inflating deductions or creating false information, which can lead to serious legal repercussions for the taxpayer.

In contrast, a list of success stories can be part of a marketing strategy and may not necessarily reflect the reliability of the preparer. While experience and having a local office might be indicators of a legitimate business, they do not specifically reveal the ethical practices of the tax preparer. Therefore, promising large refunds stands out as a clear red flag for consumers seeking trustworthy tax assistance.