
Unfortunately,
beginning this year, the IRS will implement a new program that uses private
debt collection companies to collect past-due amounts when the IRS no longer
has sufficient resources to pursue collection. This new program will create a
whirlwind of uncertainty for taxpayers, as they are already skeptical of such
calls.
In order
to prepare for this new program, it is important to know the following. The IRS
is required to give notice to each taxpayer and his or her representative that
an account has been transferred to a private debt collector, which will be
followed up by a separate letter from the collection agency.
So far
the IRS has chosen four private agencies to carry out the new program. The
agencies must abide by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The four
private agencies are Conserve (Fairport, NY); Pioneer (Horseheads, NY)
Performant (Livermore, CA); and CBE Group (Cedar Falls, IA). Additionally,
pursuant to the FDCPA, the private agencies may not partake in any act that is
deemed harassment.
Although
this new program has enabled private debt collection with regard to overdue
taxes, it is important to remain vigilant. Should you receive a call from a
debt collector posing as the IRS absent a previous notification letter from
both the IRS and the private agency, it is most likely a scam.
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