Uncollectible Taxes and AMT Lead Nina Olson's Annual Report

IRS Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson has released an 80 page annual report with considerable criticism and some praise of IRS performance. Drawing special scorn is the IRS collection efforts--Ms. Olson favors earlier intervention, greater use of offers in compromise and ending of use of private collection agencies. Other recommendations include repeal of the alternative income tax, simplification or elimination of phase-outs (such as itemized deductions), raising the filing floor for nonprofit organizations from $25,000 to $50,000 in gross revenues and clarification of the definition of a qualifying child. Ms. Olson did praise the IRS for improvements on the Questionable Refund Program and its efforts toward a five-year strategic plan for taxpayer service.

Once again, Ms. Olson comes across as a fair-minded advocate for the taxpayer. I do not necessarily oppose private collection, but all other items mentioned seem reasonable.