Mastering IRS navigation: a guide for all tax pros

Whether you are licensed or unlicensed, it’s important that tax preparers know how to work with the IRS to resolve their clients’ tax issues. Understanding the IRS organization and the various tax problems clients may face when working with the agency are vital components of this knowledge. This includes staying updated on current regulations, knowing the appropriate channels for addressing disputes and having a comprehensive grasp of potential tax challenges.

By equipping yourself with this information, you can better serve your clients and effectively manage any tax-related complications that arise.

Below, you’ll find a few of the top questions from a recent webinar on the topic and their accompanying answers. If you choose to attend the on-demand version of this webinar, you can access the full recording and the entire list of Q&As.   

Q: Is there a timeline for when the IRS will update Circular 230, as the current version is over 10 years old?

A: There have been discussions of an update, but there hasn’t been any official announcement as to when it’s coming.

Q: How do you set up an e-services mailbox?

A: You can sign in to the e-services mailbox using your ID.me account. More information is available on the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/e-services.

Q: What is a CSED?

A: CSED stands for Collection Statute Expiration Date. It’s the end of the statutory period the IRS has to collect.

Q: Can the IRS provide an actual copy of a Form 1099 issued to a taxpayer when the taxpayer did not receive one, cannot get one and is being assessed tax on it

A: You’ll need to call the IRS at 800-829-1040 for help with missing or incorrect Forms 1099.

To learn more about IRS representation, you can watch our on-demand webinar. NATP members can attend for free, depending on membership level! If you’re not an NATP member and want to learn more, join our completely free 30-day trial.