More victims coming forward in tax scam

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Evelyn Tucker is one of a group of people who say they were ripped off by Instant Tax. When she was given $700 less than expected in her tax return check she made franchise owner, who will only go by the name "Richard," sign his name with the amount still owed.

"This letter is with me day in and day out. I have copies placed in certain places," said Tucker. "When it comes down to anything that comes to litigation about this I have something in writing."

Connecticut's Better Business Bureau (BBB) has been investigating since News 8 called and told them about all of these victims . That investigation turned up Richard's full name, Richard Azikiwe, and determined that Instant Tax is not accredited.

"We have received several complaints," said Howard Schwartz from the BBB. "We're investigating those actively and other BBB's, because of what we learned in Connecticut, are taking a look at their files as well."

Some aren't getting their tax return checks at all. Many, like Tucker and Sharnelle Knight, say their taxes were filed without their W2 forms. Al of these people say Richard is nowhere to be found.

In fact Knight was told to head to Burger King in Hamden to get her check. She says an unfamiliar woman showed up and the check was about $800 less.

"They should be charged with some type of fraud," said Tucker.

All of these customers checks get deposited into an account at Instant Tax who then cuts them a check, but Tucker says she took things a step further so she isn't ripped off again.

"I've got my account flagged with the revenue department, so my money will not go into their account. It will go straight to me," she said. "I think we all need to come forward and come together and come up with some type of action against them. They shouldn't be allowed to run a business anymore."

The Better Business Bureau is continuing to investigate, but they are asking other victims to step forward and file a complaint (click here to file a complaint).

If you've been affected by this, News 8 would like to hear your stories. Email Erin Logan at erin.logan@wtnh.com.