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This section contains recent news and information specifically directed to the Tax Professional community. Bookmark this page and check often for updates. Click above to read the CCH summary of the recently enacted legislation, which includes information on changes to return preparer penalties, the AMT patch and extenders.
IRS Opens Identity Protection Specialized Unit
As part of the Service’s strategy to reduce taxpayer burden caused by identity theft, a new Identity Protection Specialized Unit opened October 1, 2008. This unit will help resolve identity theft victims’ issues quickly and effectively. Victims can call a dedicated toll-free number, 800-908-4490, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., local time (AK and HI follow Pacific Time). The unit will reduce taxpayer burden by providing individualized assistance, including:
· A single customer service representative to work with each identity theft victim to answer questions and resolve his or her issues. · A new and simplified process to verify taxpayer identity and identity theft. · A place for taxpayers to self-report identity theft before it impacts their tax accounts · A place for taxpayers to self-report incidents where they may be at risk for identity theft because their personally identifiable information has been compromised (for example, stolen purse/wallet).
In addition, the unit will assist taxpayers who have already had their tax accounts impacted by identity theft, but have not yet had their issues resolved. The unit will refer taxpayers to the IRS area that is working the identity theft issue and also collaborate with that area to monitor the case through resolution.
Taxpayer Advocate Updates Online “Tax Literacy Toolkit” The toolkit, titled “Taxes: What You Need to Know – Responsibilities & Benefits,” explains basic tax laws and procedures, with the focus on low income or limited English proficiency (LEP) taxpayers. We encourage tax professionals to share this toolkit with their clients.
The highlights include:
Collection and Payment Alternatives Earned Income Tax Credit and Family Credits
This information will help taxpayers understand why it’s important to follow the law and what their options are when the IRS is owed money. The toolkit also includes material for taxpayers with disabilities and their employers, along with a series of videos on economic stimulus payments. The Spanish material includes Publication 4580, Basic Tax Responsibility DVD for LEP taxpayers, produced in the “telenovela” format (with English subtitles and closed captioning). The toolkit is available online at http://www.tax-toolkit.com and in DVD format as Publication 4633.
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