IRS Checking on Good Standing

SHARE:

The Accountancy Boards’ executive directors were surprised to receive a letter from Elizabeth C. Kastenberg, IRS Acting Director – Office of Professional Responsibility, requesting copies of all public notices that contain information concerning the status of CPAs who have been disciplined by their Board since January 1, 2018.

Ms. Kastenberg stated in her letter: “A CPA is eligible to represent taxpayers before the IRS if he or she is a member in good standing of the state board of accountancy of any State, territory, or possession of the United States, including a Commonwealth or the District of Columbia. A CPA who is not in good standing, whose license to practice has been suspended or revoked, or who has been disbarred is not authorized to represent taxpayers.”

While some Boards have referred the IRS to their web page, others have sent the individual requested copies. Exactly what is required to properly respond to the IRS was one of the topics discussed during the Regional Conference Calls held throughout September.

Led by NASBA’s Regional Directors, all calls included an update on legislation being monitored by NASBA. Many state legislatures were not in session while the calls were going one, but issues likely to arise were highlighted by NASBA Director of Governmental and Legislative Affairs John Johnson and Vice President – State Board Relations Daniel Dustin. There was also discussion of the ongoing efforts of the Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing.