Michael Sigall, Tax Evasion, New Jersey 2024

A Camden County tax preparer has admitted to preparing false tax returns for his clients, causing more than $16,000,000 in tax losses, according to U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.

Michael Sigall, 55, of 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 carry a maximum of 3 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss or gain from the offense, whichever is greatest.

Sigall operated an income tax return preparation business from 2018 through 2024. He prepared and filed income tax returns for hundreds of clients that contained materially false statements relating to tax credits for residential energy improvements. As a result, Sigall’s clients received inflated refunds to which they would not have been entitled if Sigall had prepared accurate tax returns.

The false tax returns prepared by Sigall caused a tax loss of more than $16,000,000. Each count of aiding or assisting the preparation of false tax returns is punishable by a maximum of 3 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss or gain from the offense, whichever is greatest.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 2, 2025. U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division. Defense counsel for Sigall is Rocco C. Cipparone, Jr., of Haddon Heights, New Jersey.

As part of his plea agreement, Sigall admitted to preparing false tax returns for his clients and causing a tax loss of more than $16,000,000.

Sigall’s case is a reminder of the importance of accuracy and honesty when preparing tax returns. Taxpayers have a responsibility to ensure that their tax returns are accurate and truthful.