July 11, 2013 — Tax fraud is a direct drain on the federal coffers. To help fight tax fraud, the IRS Whistleblower Office, created by the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, provides a means for federal authorities to respond to tips from whistleblowers about tax fraud. Informants who collaborate with the IRS and provide unique information could find themselves eligible for a monetary reward depending on certain factors—a monetary reward of 15 to 30 percent of the total recovered by the IRS.
Charges Include False Claims and Passing Fictitious Obligations
Paul Ben Zaccardi of Sandy, Utah has been charged with five counts of presenting false claims to the United States in the form of fraudulent tax returns. He also has been charged with passing fictitious obligations, according to the Justice Department.
In August 2008, Mr. Zaccardi allegedly submitted income tax returns for 1996 through 2000, seeking tax refunds to which he was not entitled. Mr. Zacardi filed false claims totaling $1,510,251. Mr. Zaccardi is also accused of submitting fictitious obligations that claimed to pay his tax debts. These three fictitious obligations totaled $11,000,000.
If he is convicted, Mr. Zaccardi faces a maximum sentence of 100 years in prison.
Tipsters Are Important Allies in Fighting Tax Fraud
Insiders who know about tax fraud can be valuable allies by collaborating with the IRS and becoming an informant for the government. First, though, whistleblowers should contact an experienced lawyer to understand their rights and to gain insight on how the process works. Waters & Kraus’ financial fraud attorneys offer tipsters the skilled representation they need and deserve. Contact us by email or phone our attorneys at 855.784.0268 to learn how we can guide you through the process and safeguard your rights.
