Tax Pro Messaging

The IRS is presently taking necessary steps to ensure compliance with all executive orders and related directives.  As such, we appreciate your patience and willingness to support our ongoing efforts. The tax professional community has a vital role in assisting taxpayers and ensuring compliance with tax laws. To support your efforts, we want to provide updates on key IRS developments that may impact your work, including IRS workforce changes, service enhancements, and ongoing guidance relevant to tax professionals.

IRS Workforce and Operational Changes
The IRS has been processing all Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) participant cases. As of Friday, March 7, many of these employees will transition to administrative leave prior to their official separation from the IRS. However, some positions critical to the filing season will continue working through at least May 15.

Additionally, reduction-in-force (RIF) plans are under development as part of broader federal workforce restructuring directives. The IRS is in the process of drafting a proposed Agency RIF and Reorganization Plan, which will be submitted to the Treasury Department. No final decisions have been made regarding the timing or scope of any reductions.

 IRS Facility Changes – Lease Terminations and TAC Updates

As part of government-wide cost-saving measures, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and Treasury are reviewing IRS leases nationwide to consolidate and streamline office space.

We will provide updates on impacted locations as soon as they become available. In the meantime, tax professionals are encouraged to use IRS online services for the fastest and most efficient interactions with the agency.

We greatly appreciate your continued partnership and patience as we navigate these changes. Your dedication to assisting taxpayers and upholding compliance remains invaluable, and we remain committed to providing the best possible support during this transition.

Enhancements to IRS Online Accounts

The IRS has introduced several new features to its online accounts to improve the taxpayer experience:​

  • Taxpayers can now obtain an IP PIN through their online account, adding an extra layer of security to prevent tax-related identity theft. ​
  • Users can securely access their tax transcripts and payment history, facilitating more efficient tax preparation and issue resolution.​
  • The platform offers various payment options, including scheduling payments, and setting up payment plans.​

Recently, the IRS added access to Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement and Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement. These forms will be available for tax years 2023 and 2024 under the Records and Status tab in the taxpayer’s Online Account.

Additionally, the IRS Tax Pro Account allows tax professionals to manage authorized relationships with their clients and view clients’ tax information while keeping client data secure.

  • View clients’ tax information, including balance due amounts.
  • Send a POA or TIA request to an individual’s IRS Online Account for approval.
  • View and withdraw active POAs and TIAs.
  • Manage and withdraw active client authorizations on file with the CAF database.

These enhancements aim to streamline interactions between taxpayers, tax professionals, and the IRS, making tax administration more efficient.​

Disaster Assistance and Relief Resources

The IRS provides several resources to assist taxpayers and tax professionals in the event of a disaster:​ Around the Nation | Internal Revenue Service

  • The IRS offers up-to-date information on tax relief provisions for individuals and businesses affected by disaster situations. ​
  • Taxpayers can call the IRS disaster hotline at 866-562-5227 for assistance related to disaster-related tax issues. ​

These resources are designed to provide timely assistance and guidance to those affected by disasters, ensuring they receive the support needed to navigate tax-related challenges during recovery.​

We understand the devastation caused by the recent wildfires is deeply felt by communities. The loss of life, property, and the environment takes an immense toll on those affected. We are committed to ensuring that those who are dealing with the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles area, as well as those who are still recovering from past fires, benefit fully from the special tax law rules available to wildfire victims.  To date we have already begun or are planning to:

  • Prioritize the drafting and approval of FAQs.
  • Make necessary technical changes to IRS’ systems (including implement laws enacted by Congress as quickly as possible)
  • Maximize community outreach and education to inform taxpayers about relevant tax resources, policies, practices and procedures

Currently, the IRS has personnel supporting FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers working directly with those affected by the wildfires.