Online payment agreements.

• Author: Laffie, Lesli S.
• Position: FROM THE IRS

According to IR-2007-68, the IRS has enhanced the interactive Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application, available at www.irs.gov/individuals/ article/0,,id= 149373,00.html. OPAs allow eligible taxpayers (or their authorized representatives) to self-qualify and apply for installment agreements, receive immediate notification of approval and establish paperless direct debit agreements.

The Service estimates that over 75% of taxpayers eligible to establish an installment agreement can do so using this interactive tool.

The new enhancements provide additional functionality. Individual taxpayers who have not yet received a bill may now establish pre-assessed agreements on current-tax-year Form 1040 liabilities. Also, tax advisers with valid...