Las Vegas tax preparer pleads guilty to filing false returns

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Las Vegas tax preparer pleads guilty to filing false returns

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Jason M. Frierson U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada

A Las Vegas tax return preparer has admitted to preparing false income tax returns for clients, resulting in a significant tax loss. Keisy Altagracia Sosa, who operated National Tax Service in Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to the charges.

Court documents reveal that from 2016 to 2021, Sosa filed fraudulent tax returns with the IRS on behalf of her clients. These included falsely claiming dependents and fictitious expenses under Schedule A and Schedule C. Despite receiving multiple notifications from the IRS about inaccuracies in her filings and reminders of her due diligence obligations, Sosa continued these practices. The actions led to an estimated $550,000 loss for the IRS.

Sosa entered a guilty plea for one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and filing of a false tax return. Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon has set sentencing for June 11, 2025. The offense carries a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment, supervised release, and monetary penalties.

The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick for the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office. The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation with Assistant United States Attorneys Tony Lopez and Benjamin Shiver prosecuting.

Taxpayers are advised to be cautious of dishonest tax preparers who promise larger refunds than competitors as they may involve taxpayers in criminal activities. The IRS recommends verifying all information on tax returns before submission.

For guidance on protecting against unscrupulous tax preparers or finding reputable ones, taxpayers can visit the IRS website which provides tips on choosing a professional as well as access to a directory of credentialed federal tax preparers.

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