Tax fraud protection

It is that time of year to file those taxes, and many of us are looking for ways to pay less or get more back. In some instances of desperation, we look for shortcuts or write-offs, but this could also get you into a lot of trouble the moment you sign that federal document and send it in.

Just today a tax preparer, who was indicted in April with six others, was sent to federal prison for defrauding the federal government out of more than $200,000. Yomi Michael John admitted to inflating his clients tax refunds. Now he's paying for it.

Don't be tempted to get a fatter tax refund. You have to ask yourself is it worth it? On the Factor is a former federal prosecutor who has sent white collar criminals like tax preparers to jail, attorney Shaun Clarke with Smyser, Kaplan, and Veselka Law Firm.