Understanding the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel [TAP]: A Guide to Your Rights

Definition & Meaning

The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP) is a Federal Advisory Committee that consists of volunteers from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Established in 2002 by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, TAP aims to enhance the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) customer service and responsiveness to taxpayer needs. The panel's mission is to advocate for improvements within the IRS. Currently, TAP has around 100 members who serve three-year terms, dedicating between 300 and 500 hours annually to activities that support its mission. Members are organized into seven geographic areas for better representation and outreach.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A TAP member may identify issues related to long wait times for IRS customer service and recommend strategies to reduce these delays, based on feedback from taxpayers in their area.

Example 2: A TAP panel might conduct outreach activities to educate taxpayers about their rights and available resources, helping to bridge gaps in understanding (hypothetical example).

What to do if this term applies to you

If you encounter issues with IRS services or have suggestions for improvement, consider reaching out to TAP. You can provide feedback through their official channels. Additionally, if you need assistance with tax-related matters, explore the legal form templates available on US Legal Forms to help you manage your situation effectively. For complex issues, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.

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