Several metro Atlanta taxpayers say a neighborhood tax-preparation shop happily took their money, then never sent their returns to the government, leaving clients buried in thousands of dollars in back taxes, penalties and interest. Victims who spoke with reporters say bank withdrawals and cash payments went out the door to the firm, only for letters from the IRS and state revenue departments to arrive later. South Fulton police have opened an active investigation, and the Internal Revenue Service says it is reviewing the complaints.
According to WSB-TV, the complaints focus on Whitlan Tax Service, which Channel 2 identifies as being owned by Jahaya King. One former client, Donna Hines, told the station she paid about $15,000 to settle back taxes for her 93-year-old mother, then discovered the IRS had not received the payments and the bill had swollen to roughly $28,000 in penalties and late fees. Tax expert Shana Pope told Channel 2, “A legitimate tax preparer is going to review your files, review your income, ask questions and not make any personal guarantees or promises.”
Business listings and complaints
Public business listings show Whitlan Tax Service at 5495 Old National Hwy Ste A2, and the Better Business Bureau lists Ms. Jahaya Whitmore as the company principal, notes several complaints and gives the firm a C- rating. A tax-preparer directory also shows a Jahaya Whitmore at the same Old National Highway address (PTINDirectory). Those listings line up with client accounts that the firm accepted recurring withdrawals, asked for cash or Zelle payments, then became hard to reach.
Why PTINs and signatures matter
Federal rules require anyone who is paid to prepare a federal tax return to have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number, known as a PTIN, and to sign the return. The IRS warns that “ghost” preparers who refuse to sign or include a PTIN are a major red flag. That kind of behavior can leave taxpayers on the hook for unpaid taxes, penalties and interest even if a preparer handled all the paperwork.
The agency also explains how to report preparer misconduct, including the use of Form 14157 and Form 14157-A, and offers guidance on choosing a reputable tax professional, according to the IRS.
What people who paid Whitlan should do now
If you paid Whitlan Tax Service and suspect your returns were never filed, start by gathering bank records, receipts, contracts and any other paperwork, and ask for the return of any original documents you handed over. Channel 2 reporting says South Fulton police have an active investigation and the IRS is reviewing the complaints.
Victims should consider contacting the IRS, their state revenue agency and a certified tax professional to refile accurate returns and request abatement of penalties where possible. The clock does not stop just because a preparer dropped the ball, so quick cleanup can make a real difference.
Local enforcement and the bigger picture
The Justice Department has recently sued to shut down other Atlanta-area tax preparers accused of filing fraudulent returns and chasing improper credits, part of a broader enforcement push in the region. Atlanta tax sharks coverage notes that many people only discover they were targeted months later, when audits and collection notices start piling up.
Prosecutors and federal investigators can seek injunctions and restitution, but victims often have to move fast on their own to protect records, correct filings and try to minimize penalties.
Legal note
The police probe centers on allegations of theft by deception, and any criminal charges would be decided by prosecutors after their investigation. At the same time, taxpayers harmed by improper filings can pursue administrative complaints with the IRS and may have civil remedies. Anyone affected is urged to keep detailed records and consider seeking legal advice.
