Client Confidentiality & Tax Return Information (IRC §7216)

Client Confidentiality & IRC §7216 Protocols

At Mark L. Persitz, CPA, LLC, client confidentiality is the cornerstone of our professional relationship. We operate under a "Privacy-First" mandate, ensuring that every piece of data shared with us is protected by both federal criminal statutes and state professional codes of conduct.

Understanding Internal Revenue Code §7216

IRC §7216 is a federal criminal provision that prohibits any person who is engaged in the business of preparing, or providing services in connection with the preparation of, returns of tax imposed by chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code from "knowingly or recklessly" disclosing or using any tax return information for any purpose other than to prepare, or assist in preparing, any such return.

This means we cannot share your tax info with your mortgage broker, your lawyer, or even your financial planner without a signed, specific "Section 7216 Consent Form." This protection is absolute and designed to ensure that your financial life remains private.

Michigan CPA Privilege (MCL 339.732)

The Michigan Occupational Code provides a specific statutory privilege for CPAs. MCL 339.732 states that a person, or a firm of which a person is a member, shall not disclose any information that may have been communicated to the person in connection with professional services as a certified public accountant. This privilege is similar to attorney-client privilege and ensures that our consultations are protected from unauthorized third-party discovery.

Third-Party Service Provider Disclosure

To deliver modern accounting solutions, the Firm utilizes highly vetted third-party service providers. These providers are strictly "Cloud-Service Providers" or "Software-as-a-Service" entities that assist in data processing and storage. Our primary providers include:

  • SafeSend (Thomson Reuters Affiliate): Used for secure document gathering, digital signatures, and e-file authorizations.
  • ShareFile (Citrix): A high-encryption file storage system used for the transfer of sensitive source documents.
  • Professional Tax Software Vendors: Authorized e-file transmitters that communicate directly with the IRS and state taxing authorities.

Each provider is vetted for SOC 2 compliance and is contractually prohibited from using your data for any purpose other than providing the infrastructure for our services.