Service key in 2002.

• Author: McCrary, Deanna
• Position: IRSUpdate - Brief Article

During 2001, the IRS focused on the actual details of sweeping changes to its structure and service, such as changes in service center filing locations for individual and business returns. In 2002, the IRS is set to focus on service.

Coming soon to a mailbox near you are communication packages specifically for tax practitioners explaining what changes have been made and where you can appropriately file your returns. Media kits and outreach presentations are planned for the new year to update practitioners and taxpayers alike. This was just some of the information shared by IRS representatives with CaICPA members at the Committee on Taxation's annual liaison meeting with the IRS this past November.

"The Ogden Service Center currently is picking up the slack for 3.1 million returns," said Art Hylton, area manager, small business/self-employed taxpayer education and communication area 13 & 14. "And in 2003, that number should be zero."

NEW PRACTITIONER HOTLINE

Effective April 1, the IRS will institute a new hotline number for tax practitioners. Called Practitioner Priority Service, the hotline will be one standard, national number, (866) 860-4259, which will be serviced at five locations nationwide. Where you are routed depends upon from where you are calling. The number will be available from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. no matter where you are calling from in the United States.

"With this new service, I think you will see serious improvements and consistency in how things are handled," said Hylton.

ESTATE TAX RETURNS CENTRALIZED IN MIDWEST

Beginning Jan. 1, all estate and gift tax returns will be filed with the Cincinnati Service Center; Cincinnati OH 45999. This applies to the entire country. The address for couriers making deliveries is: Internal Revenue Service; 201 W. Rivercenter Blvd.; Covington, KY 41015. All Sec. 6166 calculations and processing will be handled at the Cincinnati Service Center, and all open cases will be transferred to Cincinnati by early 2002.

Sacramento-based CPA and committee member Dan Crosbie asked whether or not Midwest examiners will thoroughly understand California-specific issues such as community property law and differences in property values. The IRS responded that the Cincinnati Service Center will hire estate and gift tax specialists specifically trained to select returns for examination.

NEW CD-ROM FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

The IRS' small business/self-employed division has partnered with banks and small business...