2026 Preparer Penalty = $2,600 PER RETURN if you fail due diligence 😳
Let that sink in… that’s not per client — it’s per return.
That means:
- 💥 One missed due diligence checklist? $2,600.
- 💥 Five returns done wrong? That’s $13,000.
And they will audit if you’re out here being reckless with:
- EITC
- CTC
- AOTC
- HOH filing status
🛑 This ain’t the season to “guess and go.”
📌 CYA every time.
✔️ Use your checklists
✔️ Ask all required questions
✔️ Keep proper documentation
🚨 TRAIN YOUR TEAM — or pay the price later.