The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has announced a consent judgment with a Wichita accounting services business that was investigated for failing to file tax returns for its clients.

The DA’s Office investigated Bookkeeping N Beyond LLC and Nicole Clem over complaints that they failed to file 2021 tax returns as promised, and failed to disclosed to consumers that they could not electronically file taxes at the time services were provided.   The business was also accused of misleading customers about delays with expected tax refunds.

The DA’s Consumer Protection Division identified 16 customers who were affected, and at least two were over the age of 60, making them “protected consumers” under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act.   The agreement calls for the business and Clem to be liable for $120,000 in civil penalties, investigative expenses and court costs.  The business will be on a 12-month probationary period.

The DA’s Office said Clem and the business promised to refund the affected customers whose tax returns were late or had to be filed by another accounting service.  They also agreed to reimburse customers who had to pay a late fee or penalty based on the late returns.

Sedgwick County residents are advised to get the scope of work and all promises in writing when they hire a professional for a service, and all deadlines should be documented and agreed to by the professional.   Consumers can also research professional services through the Better Business Bureau.