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Are IRS employees actually responsible for anything?

by Kelly on November 1st, 2007

Apparently not.

It’s rare that I blog about client matters. I like to keep them private for a variety of reasons not the least of which are ethical considerations. But a recent client matter has me steamed. Really steamed. And it’s blog worthy. I’ll keep it generic.

Client had a tax matter that needed immediate attention. IRS Rep #1 advises me, quite candidly, that the current administration is leaning on the IRS to collect outstanding liabilities and despite earlier pledges of a “kinder, gentler IRS”, the marching orders are to take no prisoners, make no deals. Client submits offer with helpful suggestions from rep.

Client’s offer is kicked around for months and months. One rep, different rep, different rep. Finally, specialist steps in. Specialist advises us that our proposed deal is not acceptable and sends us in writing a deal that he claims is acceptable. Specialist even includes specific language for use in our offer and sends us a completed form for signature. More months pass. Nothing.

One day, deal is inexplicably denied by IRS. Adding insult to injury, collection activity immediately resumes for client’s “failure” to resolve the matter.

When we question why this happened, this is the response we get: The IRS cannot be bound by its employees’ actions. And further, while this cost our client time and money, there is nothing further that can be done.

Really?

Unbelievable.

(Yes, quietly contemplating next move but completely floored by IRS’ “ain’t our fault, we just hired the guy” attitude.)

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POSTED IN: collections