A Camden County tax preparer has admitted to preparing false tax returns for clients, resulting in a tax loss exceeding $16 million. Michael Sigall, 55, from West Berlin, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn to two counts of aiding or assisting the preparation of false tax returns.
The charges relate to Sigall’s operation of an income tax return preparation business from 2018 through 2024. During this period, he filed income tax returns containing materially false statements about tax credits for residential energy improvements. These inaccuracies led his clients to receive inflated refunds they were not entitled to if the returns had been accurate.
Each count carries a potential penalty of up to three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross loss or gain from the offense.
Sentencing is set for December 2, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Alina Habba credited special agents from IRS-Criminal Investigation with leading the investigation that resulted in Sigall’s guilty plea. The investigation was directed by Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman is representing the government in this case.
Rocco C. Cipparone Jr., based in Haddon Heights, New Jersey, serves as defense counsel for Sigall.
