

IR-2009-68, July 24, 2009
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is inviting the public to contribute ideas as part of an effort to ensure high performance standards for all tax preparers.
Last month, IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman announced plans to develop by year-end a comprehensive set of proposals to ensure consistent standards for tax preparer qualifications, ethics and service. Subsequently, the IRS announced a series of public forums, beginning in Washington, D.C., on July 30, to gather input from various stakeholder groups and organizations.
Two panel discussions involving representatives of consumer groups and tax professional organizations will take place at the Ronald Reagan Building amphitheater in Washington starting at 9 a.m. on July 30. Anyone interested in attending should confirm attendance by sending an e-mail message to: CL.NPL.Communications@irs.gov.
Notice 2009-60 issued today is an additional call for public comments and helps guarantee that all interested individuals and entities have the opportunity to contribute ideas.
“We are casting the widest net possible by seeking comment from not only tax preparers and the industry but also from the general public,” Shulman said. “All ideas are welcome at the table.”
More than 80 percent of taxpayers use either a paid-preparer or third-party software to prepare their annual tax returns. Professionals who represent clients before the IRS, including attorneys, accountants and enrolled agents are already subject to IRS oversight. But under current law, a much larger group of return preparers are not.
Written comments must be received by Aug. 31, 2009.  They should be submitted to CCPA:LPD:PR (Notice 2009-60), Room 5203, Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 7604, Ben Franklin Station, Washington, D.C. 20044.  Comments may also be e-mailed to: Notice.Comments@irscounsel.treas.gov
Please include “Notice 2009-60” in the subject line of any e-mail messages. More details can be found in IRS Notice 2009-60.
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