Improving IRS Policies Through Systemic Advocacy

The Office of Systemic Advocacy is the organization within the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) that addresses systemic problems. A systemic problem:

• Affects multiple taxpayers (individuals, businesses,
  non-profits);
• Relates to IRS systems, policies, and procedures that may not be working as intended;
• Involves analysis;
• Requires administrative solutions or legislative changes; and
• Involves protecting taxpayer rights.

The Office of Systemic Advocacy works with the IRS to resolve issues in a variety of ways. For example, in collaboration with the IRS, we have addressed problems relating to identity theft, penalties, and collection actions. Systemic Advocacy analysts are also involved in developing the National Taxpayer Advocate’s Annual Report to Congress.

If you are aware of an IRS process or procedure that may be causing problems for taxpayers, let us know! Elevate the issue so we can alleviate the problem. Individuals, businesses, tax professionals, and all interested parties can submit systemic issues to TAS via the Internet. Go to the Systemic Advocacy Management System (SAMS) page on irs.gov and follow the instructions for submitting an issue. You also can submit an issue by calling 1-800-829 3676 to obtain Form 14411, Systemic Advocacy Issue Submission Form, and faxing it to 202-622-3125. Systemic Advocacy will analyze the problem and determine the next steps to resolve it.