CAMDEN, N.J. — A New Jersey tax preparer pleaded guilty to filing fraudulent tax returns that caused over $16 million in losses to the federal government, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced Thursday.
Michael Sigall, 55, of West Berlin, admitted in federal court to two counts of aiding or assisting the preparation of false tax returns. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Sigall operated a tax preparation business from 2018 through 2024. During that time, he submitted hundreds of returns that falsely claimed residential energy tax credits, inflating refunds for clients who were not eligible for the deductions.
“These were materially false statements relating to tax credits for residential energy improvements,” prosecutors said. “As a result of these false and fictitious credits, Sigall’s clients received inflated refunds.”
The total tax loss attributed to Sigall’s fraudulent filings exceeded $16 million, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Each count carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine or twice the financial gain or loss caused by the offense. Sentencing is scheduled for December 2.
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