This CPE course provides a concise overview of the IRS Tax Advocate Service (TAS), an independent office within the Internal Revenue Service. Discover how the office personally assists taxpayers in resolving their problems with the agency. To qualify, taxpayers must be experiencing economic harm or significant cost (including fees for professional representation), have experienced a delay of more than 30 days to resolve their tax issue, or they have not received a response or resolution to the problem by the date that was promised by the IRS. You’ll walk away with a fundamental understanding of how the TAS can help you solve problems with the IRS.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• When reviewing the TAS website, practitioners will be able to identify at least 5 major sections of their online platform and the leading services and features offered in each.
• When evaluating the TAS, practitioners will be able to define at least 4 criteria the agency uses to determine if a taxpayer is eligible for their assistance.
• When assessing the TAS, practitioners will be able to point out at least 5 criteria the agency uses to decide if a taxpayer is NOT eligible for their help.
• When working with the TAS, practitioners will be able to list at least 10 set of rights people have in their relationship and dealings with the IRS.
• When interacting with the IRS, practitioners will be able to use at least 6 process roadmaps that provide guidance on how to navigate the IRS tax system.

Topics Covered:

• Tax Advocate Service (TAS) history and leadership
• Online services and interface navigation tour
• Who qualifies for TAS assistance?
• When TAS CANT help you
• Key contact information and how to make your case
• Taxpayer Bill of Rights
• TAS roadmap through IRS
• Success stories
• How to participate in TAS tax reform initiatives

Who Will Benefit/Target Audience:

Practitioners who want to explore options for resolving client issues with the IRS.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Participants should have a basic understanding of Internet technology, online navigation, and digital productivity services.