Why Doesn’t Our CPA Call the IRS to Handle Tax Questions for Us?

Answer- Due to various privacy laws, the IRS will only deal with corporate officers. Thus, a CPA, or any other representative, can only discuss the association’s tax matters with the IRS once there is a signed Power of Attorney. This is a simple, standardized form that once signed by the corporate officer and the representative (e.g. CPA) can be faxed or mailed to the IRS. At that time, the representative can then discuss the whatever tax matters are included in the Power of Attorney. The POA is very specific as to what types of tax can be discussed and what years are included.

The Association should be aware that unless the problem is an error by the CPA, the CPA may charge a fee to resolve the matter. Thus, it may be in the best interest of the Association to first try and resolve the matter through independent research and, possibly, a call to the IRS by a corporate officer. Otherwise, the Association should be prepared to pay for this service.