Members identify major taxpayer concerns and recommend service improvements.
The IRS is looking for volunteers to serve on the Tax Advocacy Panel, an advisory committee that listens to taxpayers, identifies major taxpayer concerns and makes recommendations for improving IRS service and customer satisfaction.
Taxpayers interested in serving may apply between now and April 27.
The TAP aims to include members from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and one member abroad who represents international taxpayers to represent the interests of taxpayers in their geographic location as well as taxpayers overall.
The TAP reports annually to the Secretary of the Treasury, the IRS commissioner and the National Taxpayer Advocate.
Prospective members must be U.S. citizens, be current with their federal tax obligations, be able to commit 200 to 300 volunteer hours during the year, and pass an FBI criminal background check. Members cannot be federally registered lobbyists; current Department of Treasury or IRS employees cannot serve on the panel; and former Department of Treasury or IRS employees and former TAP members must have a three-year separation from prior service to be considered.
New TAP members will serve a three-year term starting in December. Applicants chosen as alternate members will be considered to fill any vacancies that open in their areas during the next three years.
The TAP is seeking members in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont and Wyoming.
The panel is seeking alternates in all the states mentioned above, but particularly Colorado; Washington, D.C.; Delaware; Kansas; Ohio; South Dakota; Virginia; and Washington.
Candidates from underrepresented groups such as Native Americans and non-tax professionals are encouraged to apply. All timely applications will be given consideration.
