The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced a new policy that will halt unannounced visits by agents to taxpayers’ homes or businesses. This policy is part of the agency’s effort to protect taxpayers from potential abuse and harassment.
The new policy, which was announced on April 15, 2021, states that IRS agents will no longer conduct unannounced visits to taxpayers’ homes or businesses. Instead, the agency will contact taxpayers by mail or telephone to arrange an appointment. This policy applies to all IRS agents, including those conducting audits, criminal investigations, and collections.
The IRS has long been criticized for its aggressive tactics when it comes to collecting taxes. In recent years, the agency has been accused of using intimidating tactics, such as unannounced visits, to pressure taxpayers into paying their taxes. The new policy is intended to protect taxpayers from these tactics and ensure that they are treated fairly.
The policy also requires that IRS agents provide taxpayers with a written notice before any visit. This notice must include the purpose of the visit, the date and time of the visit, and the name of the agent. The notice must also provide taxpayers with the opportunity to reschedule the visit if necessary.
The new policy is part of the IRS’s effort to improve its customer service and ensure that taxpayers are treated fairly. The agency has also implemented other measures, such as providing taxpayers with more information about their rights and responsibilities, and increasing the number of customer service representatives available to answer questions.
The new policy is a welcome change for taxpayers who have been subjected to aggressive tactics by the IRS in the past. It is a sign that the agency is taking steps to ensure that taxpayers are treated fairly and with respect.
