Las Vegas Tax Preparer Sentenced for Refund Fraud Scheme
Ivan Odiaga will serve 38 months in prison for stealing $1.1 million in client tax refunds.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Taxes
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A Las Vegas man was sentenced to 38 months in federal prison for orchestrating a multimillion-dollar tax refund fraud scheme. Ivan Odiaga and his associate filed false tax returns through their local business, Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC, to divert client funds.
Why it matters
The scheme highlights the risks local taxpayers face when unauthorized preparers manipulate financial filings to siphon off refunds. The case serves as a reminder for residents to verify their tax preparer's credentials and review every return before it is submitted.
The defendants sought over $5 million in fraudulent tax refunds between 2017 and 2021, successfully diverting $1.1 million into personal accounts. The lead defendant received a 38-month prison sentence for his role in the scheme.
The players
Ivan Odiaga
The Las Vegas resident sentenced to prison for his role in a tax refund fraud scheme.
Iris Hondermann
A co-defendant who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States.
Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC
The local tax preparation business used to carry out the fraudulent scheme.
The details
Odiaga operated the fraud through Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC by inflating business losses, claiming fake COVID-19 credits, and abusing residential energy credits. He also utilized another preparer's identification number without their consent. His co-defendant, Iris Hondermann, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States in August 2026.
Timeline
2017-2021: Odiaga and Hondermann filed false tax returns.
August 5, 2026: Iris Hondermann pleaded guilty to conspiracy.
October 21, 2026: Ivan Odiaga was sentenced to prison.
Beyond the Strip
This case aligns with the documented trend of preparer fraud highlighted in the IRS's annual Dirty Dozen tax scams list. It serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with third-party tax preparers who operate outside of verified professional standards.
If you used Silver State Tax & Multiservices LLC during the 2017-2021 period, consider reviewing your past returns for potential inaccuracies. Taxpayers should ensure their preparer has a current Preparer Tax Identification Number before filing.
The takeaway
Always verify your tax preparer's credentials and cross-check the final return against your actual financial documents before signing. Residents should be wary of preparers who promise unrealistic refund amounts or redirect portions of a refund to their own accounts.
Further reading
For tips on selecting a reputable tax professional, see Taxes.
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