Is the Right to Representation Under Attack?

         For many, one of the key parts of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights is found in right #9, The Right to Representation. This provision allows for a taxpayer to choose an individual to represent them in dealings before the IRS. This fills a critical need, especially since many will only seek help after they have an issue with the IRS. However, it seems that proposed changes are going to make it much more difficult to provide care in this area.

          The IRS has proposed some troubling new changes to the Transcript system. When a Taxpayer has an issue with the IRS and does not have their own Qualified Tax Professional, they will likely look for one. In that case, the Tax Professional will need to see the documents in question, to provide the best care for their client. Unless their client has kept immaculate records, copies know as transcripts, will need to be requested from the IRS. This is a standard procedure.

          Now under the new rules, which could take effect as early as January 2019, key details such as names and employers will be removed from requested transcripts. By May 2019, the IRS will stop mailing transcripts to those whom they consider to be third parties, like licensed Tax Professionals. These changes will negatively impact the quality of service that Taxpayers deserve. We hope that in the coming weeks, reasonable adjustments are made to this proposal.

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