U.S. Congressman José E. Serrano ~ Representing the people of the 16th District of New York
5/19/2009
Serrano Chairs IRS Hearing
Congressman Serrano chaired a hearing today in the Financial Services Appropriations Subcommittee on the Fiscal Year 2010 budget request of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), at which IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman testified.
The hearing touched on several subjects, including the level of taxpayer services provided by the IRS, the Obama Administration’s plan to pursue individuals and businesses who attempt to avoid US taxes by parking their money overseas, and the audit rates for large corporations and wealthy individuals. During the course of the hearing, Serrano also urged Commissioner Shulman to work to ensure that the IRS is sensitive to the needs of individuals who are experiencing difficulties paying their taxes during the economic downturn.
“If you are having trouble paying your mortgage, you may also be having trouble paying your taxes,” said Serrano. “These individuals should not be forced to choose between basic necessities and tax payments. The IRS should work with these individuals to help them work out a payment schedule that won’t force them into poverty at the expense of compliance.”
Commissioner Shulman assured Serrano that the IRS was working with individuals to address payment difficulties caused by the downturn.