A Camden County tax preparer has admitted to preparing false tax returns, resulting in a tax loss exceeding $16 million. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.
Michael Sigall, 55, from West Berlin, New Jersey, pleaded guilty to two counts of aiding or assisting the preparation of false tax returns before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn.
Court documents and statements revealed that between 2018 and 2024, Sigall operated an income tax return preparation business. During this time, he prepared and filed returns for numerous clients with materially false statements regarding tax credits for residential energy improvements. These actions led to inflated refunds for his clients, which they would not have received had the returns been accurate. The fraudulent activities resulted in a tax loss of more than $16 million.
Each count carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 or twice the gross loss or gain from the offense.
Sentencing is set for December 2, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation under Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan for their work leading to the guilty plea.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman from the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Defense counsel is Rocco C. Cipparone Jr., based in Haddon Heights, New Jersey.
