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IRS OVERSIGHT BOARD: IRS CAN'T BAIL OUT DAWDLING CONGRESS

November 27, 2007

The IRS Oversight Board says that the IRS can't change it's systems based on what Congress might do to fix the alternative minimum tax. The IRS return processing systems can't be programmed for "what-ifs," according to the board:

These systems can only accommodate one programming option without introducing excessive risk to the filing season. Above all else, the IRS must ensure that its systems can process tax returns under current law. The IRS believes that implementing program changes into these systems that do not reflect current law could jeopardize this responsibility. The Board concurs.

The Oversight Board's views were stated in a letter to Senators Baucus and Grassley, the lead Senate taxwriters.

Tags: AMT.tax administration.