Two Memphis tax preparers have admitted in federal court that they prepared false tax returns that, according to prosecutors, pumped up client refunds over several filing seasons.
Robert Wells, 54, and Andre Wilson, 54, each pleaded guilty to conspiracy and to aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns, according to WREG. Sentencing is set for May 2026, with Wells scheduled for May 6 and Wilson for May 18, the outlet reports.
The Firm They Ran
Wells and Wilson co-founded and operated a tax-preparation shop called Wells & Wilson Financial, which promotes tax planning, bookkeeping, and refund-advance services. The business maintains a public website that lists its Memphis operation and outlines its client offerings, identifying the firm as Wells & Wilson Financial.
What Prosecutors Allege
Court filings reviewed by reporters state that Wells and Wilson prepared returns that contained bogus itemized deductions along with fabricated business income and expenses, all to inflate refunds for their customers. Prosecutors say the scheme caused the U.S. Treasury to lose more than $250,000, according to WREG.
Sentencing and Penalties
Under federal law, conspiracy to defraud the United States is treated as a serious felony. The general conspiracy statute carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison under the Legal Information Institute. The charge of preparing or willfully assisting in the preparation of false tax returns can carry up to three years in prison under provisions that cover false statements on tax documents, and fines and other penalties may also be imposed.
Local Context
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee has brought multiple cases in recent years targeting tax preparers and related fraud, describing them as part of a broader push against dishonest operators in the region in prior public announcements.
How To Protect Yourself
For taxpayers, the case is a reminder to vet anyone handling their returns. The IRS advises filers to confirm that a preparer has a valid PTIN, avoid fee arrangements based on a percentage of the refund, insist on receiving and reviewing a signed copy of the return, and keep records of everything that was filed. The agency’s guidance on choosing tax professionals expands on these and other basic safeguards.
