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Fair Lynbrook taxman loses licence
Preparer failed to file own taxes, state says
A Lynbrook man is one of three Long Island tax preparers who have had their licenses revoked by New York state for not filing income tax returns.
David Walsh — along with José Bono, of Bay Shore, and Vincent Marciante, of West Babylon — could face criminal charges, according to Geoff Gloak, a spokesman for the state’s Department of Taxation and Finance.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced the results of a crackdown on tax preparers that resulted in the suspension of the licenses of 40 preparers who failed to file personal returns for 2011 and 2012. They can no longer legally file clients’ state tax returns for pay.
“These new rules were put into place to protect taxpayers and ensure those entrusted to prepare tax returns abide by real professional standards,” Cuomo said. “By disqualifying those who fail to live up to their responsibilities, we are strengthening the system and ensuring that the millions of New Yorkers who use a tax preparation service receive what they paid for.”
New York is one of only four states that regulate tax preparers to help reduce errors and omissions on tax returns, reduce fraud, and increase the level of competence and ethics among preparers. Cuomo announced new regulations in March to identify and stop fraud with new, comprehensive rules for the 40,000 tax preparers across the state.
“It’s this simple: If you don’t file your own taxes, you shouldn’t be allowed to file returns for other New Yorkers,” said Thomas H. Mattox, the state’s commissioner of Taxation and Finance. “Without our new regulations, we would have no recourse against these preparers or others who are plainly unqualified.”
Under the new regulations, most paid tax preparers are required for the first time to pass a state competency examination, enroll in annual continuing education, be at least 18 years old and have a high school or equivalency diploma. The Tax Department’s Office of Professional Responsibility can discipline preparers who do not meet their own federal, state or local tax obligations on time.
