What is the penalty for cashing an income tax refund check without approval of the beneficiary ?

Question

My mother in law filed our taxes as she's been doing for many years as she knows how better than we do. We trusted her until now. However, we're going through a rough patch with her, she never told us how much we got back the past 2 years (we had to get an extention for year before last so we got both years done at the same time), and we just found out that this past year's return was deposited into her account (only account it could have been deposited on) and the other year was in the form of a check. We never were told wether she got a check or not so we looked into it with the IRS they sent us transcripts. And they said the check has been mailed out. Now we need to find out if it was cashed. If so, it was without our consent and knowledge, so we have the option of either working it out with her ourselves, or press charges. I would like to know what is the penalthy she could get for such a criminal offense. Any help would be appreciated. I'm just curious about it. Total amount=$4578

Answer 1

5years in prison in flordia differnt every state

Answer 2

Well it depends on what state you are in but the charges could be fraud, grand theft, maybe bank fraud, identity theft if she lied. Check your states law code, usually found on their website with the above. Of course this is in criminal court, you can also go the civil court route for damages and payback payment.

Answer 3

that is grand larceny, fraud, and a host of various other smaller charges. she could go to prison. she had no right to cash your checks or deposit the money that belonged to you. she has no shame and you should lock her up.

Answer 4

thats a federal offense. they could get jail time and have to pay that money back. who wants to have "fraud or felon" on their record. you know most companies wont hire felons so good luck findin a decent job. thats just plain wrong. what goes around comes around. i hope you turn her in.