Michigan · Tax debt relief scams
Tax debt relief scams in Michigan
If a non-lawyer took your money in Michigan — under the guise of tax debt relief scams — Michigan law is on your side. Here's how the claim works.
Reviewed July 2026 by the FakeLawyerReport editorial team
Why this is illegal in Michigan
'Tax attorney' pitches from unlicensed firms — Offer in Compromise, IRS negotiation, wage-garnishment fixes — are one of the most common UPL scams. Refunds are recoverable.
Michigan's UPL statute: Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.916; MRPC 5.5
Practicing law in Michigan without being an active member of the State Bar is a misdemeanor, and the Attorney Grievance Commission can pursue civil enforcement.
Penalties in Michigan
Misdemeanor (up to 1 year and $1,000), plus civil injunctions and restitution.
What you can recover
- A full refund of every dollar you paid.
- Statutory or civil damages under Michigan's consumer-protection laws.
- Attorneys' fees in most cases — often no out-of-pocket cost.
- Referral to a licensed Michigan attorney to try to fix the underlying case.
How to report tax debt relief scams in Michigan
- File with State Bar of Michigan — the state bar's UPL committee.
- File a consumer complaint with the Michigan Attorney General.
- Submit your case on this site for a free confidential review with a licensed Michigan attorney who handles UPL recovery.
Related resources
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