02/01/2025
IRC § 7803(c)(2)(B)(ii)(III) requires the National Taxpayer Advocate to submit an annual report to Congress that contains a summary of the ten “Most Serious Problems” encountered by taxpayers.
The National Taxpayer Advocate has just released the 2024 Annual Report to Congress, and it provides invaluable insight into the 10 most serious problems faced by taxpayers. These challenges highlight systemic issues and areas where improvements are critical for better service and fairness in the tax system.
Here are some of the key issues raised in the report:
1️⃣ Delays in processing refunds and correspondence
2️⃣ Limited access to IRS services and support, especially for those without digital resources
3️⃣ Complexity in navigating tax law changes and compliance
4️⃣ Challenges with reaching IRS representatives via phone or online chat
5️⃣ Ongoing problems with taxpayer identity verification processes
6️⃣ Disparities in audit rates impacting lower-income taxpayers
7️⃣ Language and accessibility barriers for non-English speakers and individuals with disabilities
8️⃣ Delayed resolution of appeals and disputes
9️⃣ Inefficiencies in taxpayer assistance programs
🔟 Data security and privacy concerns in a rapidly digitizing tax landscape
These issues directly affect millions of taxpayers and highlight the need for modernization, greater accountability, and increased funding for IRS operations.
📌 Let’s start the conversation.
What are your thoughts on these findings? Are there specific areas where you’ve seen progress, or do these issues resonate with your experience?