It shouldn’t happen — but it does.

Common reasons:

• They’re overwhelmed and can’t handle their client load.

   

• They pushed too many clients onto extensions, then disappeared.

   

• They lack systems to track what’s done and what’s not.

   

• They drop small clients for bigger ones with no warning.

At the end of the day, it’s poor communication — and you deserve better.

Ghosting causes real problems:

• Missed deadlines → late-filing penalties and interest.

   

• Incomplete returns → IRS letters or rejected filings.

   

• Missed deductions → you overpay or get audited later.

The longer you wait, the bigger the fix — so it’s critical to pick up the pieces fast.

Give them a short grace period if you like — but after that, move on. If you can’t get a clear answer in a few days, you’re wasting time. Time equals penalties and stress. Find someone reliable who actually answers you.

You own your raw data — W-2s, 1099s, bookkeeping files. Your CPA must give you your original records if you ask, even if you owe them money.

If they ghost you, gather copies from banks, payroll companies, and your own records. I can help recreate missing pieces from IRS transcripts too.

Unfortunately, paying upfront doesn’t guarantee work gets done. You can try to recover money with a complaint to your state board of accountancy or a small claims action — but the priority is getting your taxes done correctly first. Penalties cost more than chasing a refund.

Yes — but don’t wait. If they vanished close to filing day, an emergency extension might buy you time — but remember: extensions don’t delay payment due dates, just the paperwork.

I help late-stage clients all the time: we file fast, or get you a legit extension and an action plan.

Work with someone who’s clear about:

• How they communicate.

   

• How they handle busy season.

   

• Who actually does your work (no mystery team).

 And don’t be afraid to ask direct questions about deadlines, turnaround time, and support outside of tax season.

Yes. I specialize in picking up abandoned returns, fixing half-done files, rebuilding what’s missing, filing fast, and dealing with any IRS mess your ghost left behind. No shame, no blame — just clear answers and real action.