The Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP) is pleased to announce the publication of its Annual Report for 2023. This report highlights the significant achievements and initiatives undertaken by the panel throughout the year, including the submission of strategic recommendations to the IRS aimed at enhancing taxpayer services.

“Congratulations to all the TAP members who dedicated their time and talents to improve tax administration and the taxpayer experience,” said National Taxpayer Advocate Erin M. Collins. “On behalf of taxpayers across the country and abroad, I want to thank our TAP volunteers for a job well done and for sharing their accomplishments in the Annual Report.”

In 2023, TAP committees presented a total of 31 referrals to the IRS, encompassing 531 recommendations designed to improve taxpayer services, lessen taxpayer burden, and enhance the overall administration of taxes.

The six principal Project Committees have presented a series of recommendations to the IRS that include:

• Making enhancements to IRS Publication 5683, the VITA/TCE Handbook for Partners and Site Coordinators;
• Modifying IRS online account access to extend its availability to a broader range of U.S. taxpayers residing overseas; and
• Recommending revisions to the IRS form taxpayers use for reporting IRS balances due.

Furthermore, the committees offered suggestions on critical issues such as improving taxpayer access to IRS support through toll-free telephone lines and efforts to decrease the wait time for assistance. Historically, TAP contributions have led to significant improvements in IRS processes, forms, notices, and procedures that affect taxpayers. It is anticipated that the recommendations made in 2023 will similarly result in meaningful improvements.

You can download and read the 2023 Annual Report by clicking here or visiting www.ImproveIRS.org/tap-annual-report.

More About the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel

TAP is a Federal Advisory Committee consisting of a diverse group of citizen volunteers from across the nation and internationally who possess a sense of civic duty, patriotism, and belief in an effective and well-regarded taxation system.

Get Involved: Apply to Become a TAP Member and Submit Your Suggestions

If you want to make a difference and serve the taxpayers in your community, apply to become a TAP member. TAP is currently accepting applications for the 2025 program year in the following states and territories: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia, and an International candidate to represent taxpayers living or working abroad.

However, candidates residing in all locations are encouraged to apply, as alternates will be chosen to fill any vacancies that may open during the year. All timely applications received by March 29 will be considered. Visit our recruitment page or watch this video for more information about how to join and contribute to this dynamic group of volunteers.

You can also get involved by submitting your suggestions on how TAP can recommend future changes to improve IRS customer Service and tax administration. Please remember, TAP does not handle personal tax issues. If you are facing hardships due to an unresolved tax issue, visit the Taxpayer Advocate Service to see if you qualify for assistance.