NATP responds to Treasury Secretary Yellen’s Free File comments
In response to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s comments regarding the underutilization of the IRS Free File system by eligible taxpayers, the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) believes the fear of submitting an inaccurate self-prepared return and the potential of missing a tax benefit or credit are the primary factors for low usage.
While we support the notion that certain taxpayers should be able to meet their tax obligations in a simple and unassisted way, for most, the complication of the tax code, combined with the knowledge needed to claim tax incentives like the COVID stimulus money, earned income credit and advanced child credit makes that an impossibility. We encourage the Treasury and the IRS to continue to expand the quantity, scope and availability of helpful taxpayer tools to assist them in meeting their filing obligations and maximizing their legal benefits.
NATP also believes that effective administration of the tax law in more complex situations is best accomplished through the assistance of well-educated and trained tax professionals.
“Tax professionals understand the need to educate taxpayers on their tax compliance responsibilities,” said Tom O’Saben, EA, NATP Director of Tax Content & Government Relations. “Having the knowledge and proper tools is critical to ensuring compliance.”
We encourage the Treasury Department and Congress to continue expanding taxpayer education. We will remain committed to providing education to tax professionals so they can continue to serve taxpayers with accuracy and compliance.
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is the largest nonprofit organization that works exclusively for tax professionals. We serve members through education, advocacy and community, providing the tools they need to navigate the tax code and the insights the media can trust.
Looking for a tax expert? Tom O’Saben, EA, director of tax content and government relations at NATP, is available for phone or video interviews to discuss federal tax topics, including tax law change and its implications, taxpayer issues, tax preparer regulation and more. To schedule an interview with O’Saben, contact [email protected] or [email protected].