Extension Filers: Avoid These Tax Preparer Red Flags

If you filed for an extension, your new tax deadline is October 15, 2025. That gives you a little extra time — but not much — to get everything in order. Many taxpayers in your shoes consider hiring a professional to help finish the return.

But here’s the catch: Not all tax preparers are created equal.



Some are helpful pros. Others? Not so much. Choose the wrong one, and you could risk your refund — or worse, find yourself in a mess with the IRS.

Here are the biggest red flags to watch out for when choosing a tax preparer:

1. They Promise Bigger Refunds Than Everyone Else

If someone claims they can get you a “huge refund” before they’ve even looked at your documents, that’s a giant red flag. A legitimate preparer doesn’t make promises until they’ve seen the facts.

2. They Want Your Refund Deposited into Their Bank Account

Never agree to this. Your refund should be deposited directly into your bank account — not theirs. This is a shady tactic some preparers use to skim fees or delay payments.

3. They Won’t Sign the Return

By law, paid preparers must sign your return and include their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). If they refuse? Walk away.

4. They Don’t Ask for Records or Receipts

Good tax pros ask a lot of questions and request documentation. If someone is willing to prepare your return based only on a pay stub or vague guesses, that’s a problem.

5. They Base Their Fee on Your Refund Size

A preparer who charges a percentage of your refund has a financial incentive to fudge the numbers. Reputable pros charge flat or hourly fees — not a cut of your return.

6. They Can’t Be Reached After Tax Season

What happens if the IRS sends you a notice in December? Make sure you’re working with someone who’s available year-round — not just from January to April.

What You Should Look For

• A valid PTIN
• IRS e-file access
• Transparency in pricing
• Willingness to review the return with you
• Available to answer questions even after October

Final Tip: You Are Still Responsible

No matter who prepares your return, you are legally responsible for what gets filed. Don’t sign a return you haven’t reviewed — and never sign a blank one.

Need Help You Can Trust?

At Arch Tax, we pride ourselves on transparency, ethics, and experience. We’ve helped hundreds of clients meet their tax deadlines — without the red flags.

Let’s make sure your return gets filed right. Schedule a free consultation today!