Activity 1: Create a team to review any existing IRS processes for ensuring that return preparers and tax return preparation software companies are in full compliance with the rules and regulations governing taxpayer consent for using and disclosing tax return information; if appropriate, TAS will make recommendations as to how the IRS can strengthen this review process.

Activity 2: Explore what options are available to taxpayers to hold return preparers and tax return preparation software companies accountable for unauthorized uses or disclosures of their information and research any potential legislative changes that may be necessary to protect tax return information; if appropriate, TAS will make legislative recommendations to Congress in the National Taxpayer Advocate’s Annual Report to Congress.

Activity 3: Review tax return preparation software companies’ consents to share tax return information and recommend changes to the consent statements to better protect taxpayer rights.

Activity 4: Review and consider the need for legislation, similar to the California Privacy Rights Act, which added the right to correct inaccurate personal information and the right to limit the use and disclosure of sensitive personal information.

Quarterly update on the identified activities

Projected next actions