Generally, the TRA Office helps taxpayers when they are unable to resolve a matter through normal channels, have difficulty in moving up the chain of command, or when they want information regarding the process or procedures relating to a particular set of circumstances or regarding their rights.
Taxpayers also call seeking assurances or confirmation that staff action is lawful and just.
In cases where the law, policy, or procedure does not allow any change to the staff action, the TRA Office is alerted to a potential area which may need clarification or modification. Many of the past recommendations for policy or procedural changes, and legislative proposals, have resulted from contacts with taxpayers. Publication 70, The California Taxpayers' Bill of Rights , will give you more information on the program as it relates to business issues. Property Taxes TRA staff provide guidance on how taxpayers can communicate better with state and county staff and less often on how staff can communicate with the taxpayer. Taxpayers are provided information so that they are on a level playing field with state and county staff.