Taxpayer Advocate Service – 10 Most Serious Problems Encountered by Taxpayers

Problem #3: Transparency (Part II)

What Is Transparency, and Why Does It Matter?

“Transparency” is the government’s obligation to share with citizens the information they need to
make informed decisions and hold officials accountable for the conduct of the people’s business.
Government accountability means that public officials have an obligation to explain their
decisions and actions to citizens.

At its core, transparency is about establishing trust and improving the communication of the IRS
with the tax community and with Congress. All relationships depend on honest and
straightforward communication, and one’s mandatory relationships with government institutions
are no exception. Full transparency is important for:

• Accountability: The IRS needs to provide straightforward and detailed information about its
  decisions, actions, and reform plans so stakeholders can give informed feedback, and Congress
  can take any action needed to modify the law.
• Simplicity: Taxpayers need clear answers to their questions so they do not have to spend time
  struggling to understand tax law requirements.
• Trust: Taxpayers will be increasingly willing to engage with the IRS when they know IRS
  employees can provide them with prompt and knowledgeable answers, help find fair and
  effective resolutions to issues, and help them be compliant with the tax laws.
  

For more information on this problem, please see the Taxpayers Advocacy Web page
(www.TaxpayerAdvocate.irs.gov)
Next week Tuesday Tax Tip will discuss Problem 4
(www.TaxpayerAdvocate.irs.gov) (TTT 110524)