Looks like the IRS has caught on to The Stupid Preparer Files.  This is the second news release by the IRS about stupid preparers in a couple of months.   If you are a loyal reader of  More Tax Tips you know that I like to keep readers up to date on IRS tax tips and news releases, so I am – shall we say – on top of these releases.  I can’t recall seeing this particular topic – not in the last few years anyway.  

One other point of interest you will notice as your read about this Stupid Preparer is this story also has elements of the DUH factor too. 

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IRS Wins 48-Month Suspension of a Lawyer for Failing to File His Own Tax Return and Late Filing

WASHINGTON — Massachusetts Tax Attorney Kevin Kilduff was barred from practicing before the Internal Revenue Service for 48 months for failing to file one federal tax return and for filing another five returns late.

“Professionals who demonstrate a lack of respect for our tax system by failing to meet their own tax filing obligations should not expect to retain the privilege to practice before the IRS,” said Karen L. Hawkins, Director of the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR).

The OPR had originally sought the 48-month suspension, alleging Kilduff’s conduct was willful and disreputable. OPR enforces standards of conduct under Treasury Circular 230, which governs enrolled agents, attorneys and certified public accountants. Kilduff formerly worked for the IRS Office of Chief Counsel.

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) subsequently set the penalty at a 24-month suspension. Kilduff appealed the ALJ decision to the Secretary of the Treasury’s Appellate Authority, which in fact ultimately imposed the harsher 48-month suspension.

Kilduff’s suspension is for a minimum of 48 months. OPR has sole discretion regarding his reinstatement to practice before the IRS. At the very least, Kilduff must file all federal returns and pay all taxes he is responsible for, or enter an acceptable installment agreement or offer in compromise.

The complete decisions of the ALJ and the Appellate Authority are available on the OPR page on this web site.

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So not filing your own tax return is not a good idea. – DUH