part5-8
- 5.1.9.1
Overview of Collection Appeal Rights - 5.1.9.2
Informing Taxpayers of Their Appeal Rights - 5.1.9.3
Collection Due Process - 5.1.9.4
Collection Appeals Program - 5.1.9.5
Communications with Appeals - 5.1.9.6
CDP Tracking System (CDPTS)
-
This section discusses the rights taxpayers have to appeal collection actions, proposed or taken, and the related appeal procedures.
-
The specific appeal rights being addressed include
the Collection Due Process (CDP) appeal rights
-
IRC 6320 gives the taxpayer the right to appeal the filing of a Notice of Federal Tax Lien.
-
IRC 6330 gives the taxpayer the right to appeal before the proposed levy action.
and appeal rights under the Collection Appeals Program (CAP)
-
IRC 7122(e) gives the taxpayer the right to appeal the Service’s rejection of installment agreement requests. The taxpayer
also has the right to appeal proposed terminations of installment agreements and actual terminations of installment agreements. -
IRC 7123 gives the taxpayer rights to mediation and arbitration before Appeals that the Service provides through CAP. Under
CAP, the taxpayer has the right to appeals proposed or actual lien, levy, or seizure actions, rejected or terminated installment
agreements, rejected offers in compromise, proposed trust fund recovery penalties, and denials of requests to abate penalties.
-
-
Taxpayers have additional appeal rights, including those related to assessment of the trust fund recovery penalty (IRM 5.7.6.1.3,
Appealing the Proposed Assessment), offers in compromise (IRM 5.8.7.6.5, Rejection Appealed), abatement of penalty assessments
due to reasonable cause (IRM 20.1, Penalty Handbook), and jeopardy levies (IRM 5.11.3.6, Appeals the Jeopardy Levy).
-
Taxpayers need to be informed of their right to appeal collection actions. The following publications and forms explaining
appeal rights and provisions should be readily available in Collection offices to provide to taxpayers:-
Publication 594, What You Should Know About the IRS Collection Process, explains the steps the IRS must take to collect overdue
taxes and addresses general appeal provisions. -
Publication 1660, Collection Appeal Rights, provides detailed information regarding the collection appeal rights and procedures
under Collection Due Process and the Collection Appeals Program. -
Form 9423, Collection Appeal Request.
-
Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing.
-
-
Revenue officers need to clearly explain the appeal provisions to taxpayers and thoroughly answer questions taxpayers may
have regarding their right to appeal. -
Statutory provisions under IRC § 6320 and IRC § 6330 require the Service to provide taxpayers with written notification of
their appeal rights. Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3, Collection Due Process. -
Collection personnel are required to advise taxpayers of their right to appeal under CAP when an installment agreement is
rejected or about to be terminated. Collection personnel should also advise taxpayers of their right to appeal under CAP prior
to and after the filing of a federal tax lien or levy, when the taxpayer disagrees with the lien or levy action. Refer to
IRM 5.1.9.4, Collection Appeals Program. -
Collection personnel need to provide taxpayers with Publication 1660 prior to seizure action. See IRM 5.10.1.5(2).
-
The Restructuring and Reform Act (RRA) of 1998 established the Collection Due Process hearing rights under IRC 6320 and IRC
6330. These provisions apply to levy and lien actions taken after January 18, 1999.
-
The Collection Due Process hearing provisions give taxpayers an opportunity for an independent review to ensure that the levy
or lien action by Collection is warranted and appropriate. In the Collection Field function, attempted contact with the taxpayer
and alternative methods for resolving the case, such as installment agreements and offer in compromise, should be considered
before levy or lien action is initiated. -
IRC 6320 gives taxpayers the right to request a hearing during the 30-day period that begins on the day after the five-business-day
period after the filing of a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. Refer to IRM 5.12, Federal Tax Liens and IRM 5.1.9.3.2.1, Timeliness
of the CDP Hearing Request.-
Letter 3172(DO), Notice of Federal Tax Lien Filing and Your Right to a Hearing under IRC 6320, will be given in person, left
at the dwelling or usual place of business, or sent by certified or registered mail to the last known address not more than
5 business days after the day of the filing of the Notice of Federal Tax Lien. -
This notice is required only once for the taxable period and unpaid tax which is the subject of the lien filing. A second
notice is required if a new lien is filed for an additional assessment of tax made for the tax period after the original Letter
3172 was issued (not including new assessments of interest and penalty accruals). -
For a joint income tax liability, each spouse will individually be sent to his or her last known address a Letter 3172 explaining
the right to a hearing. Two separately addressed notices are sent even if both spouses are at the same address.
-
-
IRC 6330 gives taxpayers the right to request a hearing during the 30-day period that begins the day after the date of the
Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing. Refer to IRM 5.11, Notice of Levy.-
This Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing will be given in person, left at the dwelling or usual
place of business, or sent by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to the taxpayer’s last known address
not less than 30 days before the day of the first levy. -
Information regarding how the notice was sent, delivered, or left at the dwelling or business must be documented in the case
history. In addition, request input of appropriate TC 971 action codes. -
This notice is required only once for the taxable period and unpaid tax which is the subject of the pre-levy notice. A second
notice is required if levy action is planned to collect additional taxes that were assessed for the taxable period after the
original notice was issued (not including new assessments of interest and penalty accruals). -
For a joint income tax liability, when a Letter 1058, Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing, is issued
in the field, each spouse will individually be given or sent, to his and her last known address, the letter explaining the
right to a hearing. Two separately addressed notices are sent even if both spouses are at the same address. -
For a partnership employment or excise tax liability, the Letter 1058 is issued to the partnership when partnership assets
are to be levied. If the Service intends to levy on the property of the individual general partners to collect the employment
or excise taxes, then the Letter 1058 needs to be issued to the individual general partners.
Note:
USPS certified or registered mail service is available in all U.S. Territories, including American Samoa, Commmonwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. USPS certified or registered mailis also available
in certain U.S. Protectorates including the Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of
Palau, Johnson Atoll, Midway Islands, Marshall Island, and Wake Island. USPS certified or registered mail service may not
be available in other U.S. Protectorates. In those jurisdictions, a private delivery service (UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.) may be
used to provide delivery in person or to the taxpayers residence or usual place of business, in accordance with section 6330(a)(2)(A)
and (B). You must retain a copy of the signed receipt or the signature of the private delivery service employee affirming
that he/she left the notice at the taxpayers residence or usual place of business. Where use of a private delivery service
may be prohibitively expensive in relation to the amount of tax expected to be collected, please contact Counsel for guidance. -
-
There are three exceptions to the pre-levy notice requirements of IRC 6330. They are:
-
when the collection of tax is in jeopardy under section 6331(a), or
-
a levy is served on a State to collect a Federal tax liability from a State tax refund, or
-
a disqualified employment tax levy is served.
In each of the above situations, the taxpayer will be given the opportunity for a CDP hearing within a reasonable period of
time after the levy. Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3.13, Jeopardy Levy and SITLP, and IRM 5.1.9.3.14, Disqualified Employment Tax Levy. -
-
There is no right to a hearing when child support obligations are being collected. See IRM 5.11.1.2.2.10, Issuing Notice of
Intent to Levy for Child Support Obligations, Balances Due.
-
If contact is made with the taxpayer after the issuance of the CDP notice, attempt to resolve the account or issue with the
taxpayer. In some situations it may be useful to have the group manager intercede in discussions with the taxpayer in an effort
to resolve the case. Advise taxpayers entitled to request an appeal under the CDP provisions of the requirements and time
frames for filing an appeal. Be sure to let taxpayers know that discussions with Collection do not suspend the running of
(or otherwise extend) the 30-day period during which taxpayers may request a CDP hearing. When applicable, consider Fast Track
Mediation as an option for resolving the issue with the taxpayer. See IRM 5.1.9.3.8, CDP and Equivalent Hearing Fast Track
Mediation (FTM). -
If the taxpayer wants to file a request for a hearing,
-
it must be in writing;
-
it must be filed on or before the date that is 30 days after the date of the Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right
to a Hearing or on or before 30 days after the five-business-day period following the filing of the Notice of Federal Tax
Lien; and -
if the hearing request is filed late, the taxpayer may be entitled to an equivalent hearing but only if specifically requested.
Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3.2.1, Timeliness of the CDP Hearing Request, and IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of
Equivalent Hearing Requests.
-
-
Taxpayers generally use Form 12153, Request for Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing , to request the hearing. This
form is included with the CDP notice. If this form is not used, the taxpayer may submit a written request for a CDP hearing
signed by the taxpayer or authorized taxpayer representative. -
The written request for a hearing must be dated and must include the following information:
-
The taxpayers name, address, daytime telephone number (if any), and taxpayer identification number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN).
-
The type of tax involved.
-
The tax period(s) at issue.
-
A statement that the taxpayer requests a hearing concerning the proposed levy or in the case of post levy CDP requests, the
actual levy action, or the filing of the Notice of Federal Tax Lien. -
The reason(s) why the taxpayer disagrees with the action.
Note:
Section 6330 was amended in 2006 to permit the Service to disregard any portion of a hearing request that includes a reason
that appears to be frivolous or reflects a desire to delay or impede the administration of federal tax laws. Under these circumstances
the taxpayer may be denied a hearing. Procedures for disregarding portions of hearing requests or denying hearing requests
altogether will be issued in supplemental Interim Guidance in the future. -
The signature of the taxpayer or the taxpayers authorized representative.
-
-
For a the tax liability involving a partnership,
-
if the CDP notice is issued to a partnership, then a partner with authority to represent the partnership could request a hearing
for the partnership. -
if a CDP lien notice is issued to an individual partner listed on the NFTL, then that partner could request a hearing as an
individual partner. -
if a CDP levy notice is issued to a general partner because the Service intends to levy the individual property of the general
partner, then that partner could request a hearing as an individual partner.
-
-
The CDP hearing request includes all applicable periods listed on the CDP notice even if not listed on the hearing request.
The taxpayer can exclude a specific tax period on the CDP notice if he or she is not disputing the collection action for a
specified tax period.-
If the taxpayer includes periods that are not subject to the CDP hearing, the taxpayer may be requesting an equivalent hearing
for the other periods (see IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Request). If the taxpayer
is not entitled to a CDP hearing or an equivalent hearing, i.e., has not been issued a CDP hearing notice, previously received
a CDP hearing or the time frame has expired for requesting an equivalent hearing, notify the taxpayer and advise the taxpayer
of his or her available rights such as those available through CAP or retained jurisdiction.
-
-
If the taxpayer received a CDP notice for both lien filing and proposed levy action, the taxpayer may appeal both notices.
Appeals should consolidate the requests for the CDP hearing. -
The taxpayer must send or deliver the CDP hearing request to the IRS office and address as directed on the CDP notice. If
the address of that office does not appear on the CDP notice, the taxpayer should obtain the address of the office to which
the written request must be sent or delivered by calling the toll-free number on the notice or by calling toll-free, 1-800-829-1040
and providing the taxpayers identification number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN). If the taxpayer wishes to fax the CDP hearing requests,
the taxpayer may request the fax number of the appropriate office from one of these toll-free numbers. The taxpayer may also
hand-deliver the request to the local taxpayer assistance center within the 30-day period.Note:
If the CDP notice does not include the address of the office that sent the notice, and the taxpayer sends the hearing request
to the wrong IRS office, timeliness should be determined by the postmark date of the request.
-
Collection makes the initial determination about the timeliness of a request for hearing from a CDP levy notice or CDP lien
notice, but Appeals must make the final timeliness determination. See (9) below. -
For a CDP levy hearing request to be timely, the taxpayer must submit a written request for a CDP levy hearing within the
30-day period commencing the day after the date of the CDP levy notice. If the CDP levy notice is not available for purposes
of identifying the date of the CDP levy notice, a TC 971 ac 069 on the tax module identifies the date the CDP levy notice
was issued. If the request for the hearing is made after this 30-day period, the taxpayer may be entitled to an equivalent
hearing. See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Requests. -
The time frame for filing a timely CDP lien hearing request is different than for a CDP levy request. For a CDP lien hearing
request to be timely, a taxpayer must submit a written request for a CDP hearing within the 30-day period that commences the
day after the end of the five-business-day period following the filing of the NFTL. Any request filed during the five-business-day
period (before the beginning of the 30-day period) will be deemed to be filed on the first day of the 30-day period. The Letter
3172, provides the date for the taxpayer to file a timely CDP lien hearing request. If a request is filed within that time
period it is considered timely. If the request for the hearing is late, the taxpayer may be entitled to request an equivalent
hearing. See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Request.Note:
The date on the Letter 3172 considers the NFTL filed three business days after the NFTL is mailed to the recording office.
-
A timely filed request for a hearing suspends the statutory period of limitations on collection, criminal prosecutions, and
other suits for the period that is being appealed. The suspension begins on the receipt date of the CDP hearing request. -
The request for a CDP hearing should be stamped with the received date.
-
Use the date received in the office listed on the CDP hearing notice to determine the timeliness of the CDP hearing request.
If the received date is after the time frame for filing a timely CDP hearing request but the request was postmarked timely,
use the postmark date as the receipt date. Timely mailing constitutes timely filing if the taxpayers request for a CDP hearing
is correctly addressed to the IRS office listed in the CDP hearing notice. If the address of that office does not appear on
the CDP notice, the taxpayer should obtain the address to which the written request should be sent or hand delivered by calling
toll-free, 1-800-829-1040, and providing the taxpayers identification number (SSN, EIN, or ITIN). When the postmark is illegible
or the envelope is missing, ascertain a reasonable period for mail delivery from the origin of the request to the receiving
office and deduct that amount of time from the received date. If the 30th day is a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday, and
the postmark is for the next business day, it is timely. Keep the envelope in which the hearing request was mailed and associate
it with the hearing request. -
A taxpayers request for a CDP hearing can be submitted via facsimile (FAX) to the office listed on the notice. The transmission
date will be the received date. The transmittal sheet should be retained along with the CDP hearing request. -
A request for CDP hearing is untimely if:
-
The request was not received within the required time period.
-
The timely but nonprocessable request is made processable by the taxpayer after the reasonable time period given for perfection.
For a description of the perfection process and processability criteria, see IRM 5.1.9.3.2.2, Perfection of Timely CDP Hearing
Requests.
-
-
When a hearing request is untimely, the request must be sent to Appeals for a separate timeliness determination.
Note:
A separate timeliness determination is not needed if the request is a timely CDP or equivalent hearing request.
-
Document in the ICS case history, the reason Collection determined the request to be untimely received. For example: The hearing
request was received within the 30-day period in section 6330 but was unprocessable. The taxpayer failed to sign the request
and was given 15 days to provide a signed copy of the request. The taxpayer provided the signature 25 days after the perfection
request and as a result the request was untimely. The taxpayer stated he did not want an equivalent hearing. -
Fax the hearing request, Form 12153, the envelope it was mailed in, a copy of CDP notice (L 3172 or L 1058), and any written
correspondence to and from the taxpayer, including any documents submitted by the taxpayer, to Appeals for a separate timeliness
determination. Appeals has access to the ICS history. Use a Form 3210, Document Transmittal, clearly noting Request for Separate Timeliness Determination. Appeals will expedite timeliness determinations. -
Fax requests for Separate Timeliness Determinations to Appeals based on the location of the taxpayer. For taxpayers residing
in AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NH, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, PR, RI, SC, TN, USVI, VA, VT, WV, and
International, fax requests to APS, Hartford, CT via fax (860) 290-4007. For taxpayers residing in AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, HI,
IA, ID, IL, KS, MN, MT, NE, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY, fax requests to APS, St. Paul, MN via fax (651) 726-7451.
-
-
Appeals will either:
-
Agree with Collections timeliness determination.
-
Disagree with Collections timeliness determination.
-
Partially agree with Collections timeliness determination because there are multiple modules. If Appeals partially disagrees,
Appeals will identify which periods should be returned to Appeals.
If Appeals agrees that the request was untimely, inform the taxpayer orally or in writing that the request is untimely and
that the taxpayer may elect to have the CDP hearing request treated as an equivalent hearing request. See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3,
Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Requests. If Appeals disagrees with the timeliness determination,
treat the request for CDP hearing as timely and process the CDP request under normal procedures. -
-
In some cases, Forms 12153 or other written hearing requests are timely filed, but are incomplete and must be perfected. The
hearing request may be missing required information. If possible, missing information should be obtained from IRS systems,
such as IDRS. If this information is not available through a search of IRS systems, then the taxpayer will need to furnish
it. If an authorized signature is missing, the taxpayer will need to provide it. The taxpayer must provide the following:-
Signature of taxpayer(s) or authorized representative. Both spouse’s signatures are required on joint tax periods if both
spouses are requesting a hearing. -
SSN, ITIN, or EIN. This information should be listed on the Form 12153 but may also be found on the CDP notice, if attached.
If there is no SSN, ITIN or EIN on the Form 12153 or other written hearing request and the CDP notice is not attached, then
attempt to identify the SSN, ITIN or EIN on IRS systems using the taxpayer’s name and address if available. -
Taxpayers name. If the taxpayer supplies the SSN, ITIN, or EIN, the name can be obtained from IRS systems. The request should
not be treated as an imperfect request if this information can be obtained from IRS systems. -
Type of tax/tax period(s). This information should be listed on the Form 12153, but may also be found on the CDP notice, if
attached. If the taxpayer supplies the SSN, ITIN, or EIN, the tax/tax period(s) can be obtained from IRS systems. The request
should not be treated as an imperfect request if this information can be obtained from IRS systems. -
Statement that the taxpayer requests a CDP hearing. If the taxpayer did not submit Form 12153, but it is evident that the
taxpayer is requesting a CDP hearing, then the taxpayer has met this requirement. For example, if the taxpayer provides the
taxpayers name, address, SSN, and the tax and period at issue, and the IRSs records show that a CDP notice was recently
sent to the taxpayer, then the taxpayer has met this requirement. Similarly, if the taxpayer attached the CDP notice, the
taxpayer has met this requirement. -
The taxpayer is required to provide a reason for disagreement. If the taxpayer fails to provide a reason, give the taxpayer
a reasonable opportunity to provide reasons for disagreement.Note:
A request is not imperfect if it is missing a daytime phone number, or address. If the taxpayer submits an SSN, ITIN or EIN,
then the taxpayer’s last known address should be available on IDRS.Note:
Section 6330 was amended in 2006 to permit the Service to disregard any portion of a hearing request that includes a reason
that appears to be frivolous or reflects a desire to delay or impede the administration of federal tax laws. Under these circumstances
the taxpayer may be denied a hearing. Procedures for disregarding portions of hearing requests or denying hearing requests
altogether will be issued in supplemental Interim Guidance in the future.
-
-
If a request for a CDP hearing is filed timely, but needs to be perfected, make a reasonable attempt to contact the taxpayer
and allow a reasonable time (generally 15 calendar days) for the taxpayer to perfect the request. If the taxpayer forgot to
sign the request or failed to furnish required information, the taxpayer may perfect the request by supplying the missing
signature or by providing the missing information. If the request is signed on the taxpayer’s behalf by the taxpayer’s spouse
or other unauthorized representative, the taxpayer may perfect the request by affirming in writing that the request was submitted
on the taxpayer’s behalf. -
If the timely but incomplete CDP hearing request is processable when received, then it is timely even if the taxpayer perfects
the request late or only perfects the request partially or does not respond. A CDP hearing request is processable unless the
request is:-
Not signed.
-
Signed but the signer is not authorized to sign on behalf of the taxpayer (example: an unenrolled return preparer or spouse).
-
Signed but the signer does not have proper authorization (no Power of Attorney on file).
-
Does not have a valid SSN, ITIN or EIN and one could not be identified. See 1(b) above.
-
Does not include a reason for the request.
-
-
If the timely but incomplete CDP hearing request is not processable when received, and, within the reasonable time period
specified, the taxpayer perfects the request or partially perfects the request so the request is processable, then the CDP
hearing request is timely filed. Advise the taxpayer that if the processable request is received after the time frame, the
taxpayer would be entitled to an equivalent hearing if specifically requested.Note:
If the taxpayer demonstrates that the late response was due to extenuating circumstances, such as being in the hospital or
out of the country during that period, then treat the request as timely. -
If after the perfection period the taxpayer perfects the request enough to make it processable, the request for hearing is
untimely. The taxpayer must be offered an opportunity to request an equivalent hearing as described below in IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3,
Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Requests. -
If after the perfection process the request is not processable, the taxpayer is not entitled to a CDP hearing. Notify the
taxpayer in writing that the taxpayers request for a CDP hearing cannot be processed. Explain that the taxpayer may be eligible
for an equivalent hearing and enclose a Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing.
-
If the request for the CDP hearing is made after expiration of the IRC 6320 or IRC 6330 notice period, the taxpayer may request
an administrative hearing with Appeals, which is referred to as an “equivalent hearing.”
The equivalent hearing will be held by Appeals and generally will follow Appeals procedures for a CDP hearing. Appeals
will not, however, issue a Notice of Determination. Under such circumstances, Appeals will issue a Decision Letter and the
taxpayer is not entitled to judicial review. -
The taxpayer must submit a written request for an equivalent hearing within the one-year period commencing the day after the
date of the CDP Notice issued under IRC 6330 (CDP levy notice). This period is slightly different from the period for submitting
a written request for an equivalent hearing with respect to a CDP Notice issued under section 6320. For a CDP Notice issued
under section 6320, a taxpayer must submit a written request for an equivalent hearing within the one-year period commencing
the day after the end of the five-business-day period following the filing of the NFTL. If the request is received or if mailed,
postmarked after the one-year period, notify the taxpayer of his or her available rights such as CAP or requesting assistance
from TAS. -
The taxpayer can request an equivalent hearing either by
-
checking the Equivalent Hearing box on Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing, or other written
request or -
confirming that he/she wants an untimely CDP hearing request to be treated as an equivalent hearing when notified by Collection
of an untimely CDP hearing request.
-
-
Late CDP hearing requests are not automatically treated as equivalent hearing requests. However, treat a late filed CDP hearing
request as a request for equivalent hearing if the taxpayer has checked the Equivalent Hearing box on Form 12153 requesting
an equivalent hearing or otherwise indicated in writing that the taxpayer wishes an equivalent hearing if the CDP hearing
request is untimely. For late filed CDP hearing requests where the taxpayer has not checked the box on Form 12153 or otherwise
indicated in writing that the request is to be treated as a request for an equivalent hearing, notify the taxpayer either
orally or in writing of the late filed request and advise the taxpayer of the right to request an equivalent hearing (unless
the CDP hearing request is postmarked after the expiration of the one-year period for requesting an equivalent hearing). If
the taxpayer indicates either orally or in writing that the CDP request should be treated as an equivalent hearing request,
process the CDP hearing request as a request for an equivalent hearing. There is no need for the taxpayer to file a separate
request for an equivalent hearing.-
Explain to the taxpayer that a CDP hearing and an equivalent hearing are substantially the same, but there is no judicial
review of an equivalent hearing. -
Explain that the taxpayer is entitled to challenge in the hearing Collection’s determination that the request is untimely.
-
-
If the taxpayer has checked the Equivalent Hearing box on Form 12153 or submitted any other written request for the equivalent
hearing, the request for the equivalent hearing should be stamped with a received date. Use the date received in the office
listed on the CDP hearing notice to determine the timeliness of the equivalent hearing request. If the received date is after
the one-year time frame for filing a timely equivalent hearing request but the request was postmarked timely, use the postmark
date as the receipt date. Timely mailing constitutes timely filing if the taxpayers request for an equivalent hearing is
correctly addressed to the IRS office listed in the CDP hearing notice. If the address of that office does not appear on the
CDP notice, the taxpayer should obtain the address to which the written request should be sent or hand delivered by calling
toll-free, 1-800-829-1040, and providing the taxpayers identification number (SSN, EIN, or ITIN). When the postmark is illegible
or the envelope is missing, ascertain a reasonable period for mail delivery from the origin of the request to the receiving
office and deduct that amount of time from the received date. If the day on which the one-year period expires is a Saturday,
Sunday, or federal holiday, and the postmark is for the next business day, it is timely. Keep the envelope in which the hearing
request was mailed and associate it with the hearing request. -
If a taxpayer has elected to treat the CDP hearing request as an equivalent hearing request, use the postmark date of the
CDP hearing request as the date the equivalent hearing request was submitted. If the taxpayer submitted a CDP hearing request
within the one-year period and the taxpayer responded within the specified time period that the taxpayer wanted an equivalent
hearing but the taxpayers response was later than the one-year period, the request for equivalent hearing is timely. -
A taxpayers request for an equivalent hearing can be submitted via facsimile (Fax). The transmission date will be the received
date. The transmittal sheet should be retained along with the CDP hearing request. -
Following an equivalent hearing, the appeals officer sends the taxpayer a letter explaining the results of the hearing. In
an equivalent hearing, the decision by Appeals is final. The taxpayer cannot appeal the decision to Tax Court. The exceptions
to this are spousal defenses under IRC section 6015 and denial of interest abatement under IRC Section 6404. The taxpayer
has 90 days to file a petition for review of a denial of innocent spouse relief and 180 days to file a petition for review
of denial of interest abatement. There is also the potential for litigation over whether or not the CDP request is timely. -
The statute of limitations on collection is not suspended during the equivalent hearing.
-
An equivalent hearing request is untimely:
-
when an equivalent hearing request is not received within the one-year period or
-
when a timely but nonprocessable equivalent hearing is made processable after the reasonable time period for perfection specified
by Collection and after the one-year period for requesting an equivalent hearing has expired. For a description of the perfection
process and processability criteria, see IRM 5.1.9.3.2.4, Perfection of Timely Equivalent Hearing Requests.
-
-
When an equivalent hearing request is untimely, the request must be sent to Appeals for an ultimate determination of timeliness.
-
Document the ICS history with the reason the request was determined to be untimely received.
-
Fax the hearing request, Form 12153, the envelope it was mailed in, a copy of CDP notice (L 3172 or L 1058), and any written
correspondence to and from the taxpayer, including any documents submitted by the taxpayer, to Appeals for a separate timeliness
determination. Appeals has access to the ICS history. Use a Form 3210, Document Transmittal, clearly noting Request for Separate Timeliness Determination. Appeals will expedite timeliness determinations. -
Fax requests for Separate Timeliness Determinations to Appeals based on the location of the taxpayer. For taxpayers residing
in AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NH, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, PR, RI, SC, TN, USVI, VA, VT, WV, and
International, fax requests to APS, Hartford, CT via fax (860) 290-4007. For taxpayers residing in AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, HI,
IA, ID, IL, KS, MN, MT, NE, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY, fax requests to APS, St. Paul, MN via fax (651) 726-7451.
-
-
Appeals will either:
-
Agree with Collections timeliness determination.
-
Disagree with Collections timeliness determination.
-
Partially agree with Collections timeliness determination because there are multiple modules. If Appeals partially disagrees,
Appeals will identify which periods should be returned to Appeals.
If Appeals agrees that the request was filed late, inform the taxpayer orally or in writing that the request is untimely and
that the request for hearing is denied. The taxpayer may request a CAP hearing or request assistance from TAS. If Appeals
disagrees with the timeliness determination, treat the request for equivalent hearing as timely and process the equivalent
hearing under normal procedures. -
-
In some cases, Forms 12153 or other written request for equivalent hearing are timely filed, but are incomplete. The hearing
request may be missing required information. If possible, missing information should be obtained from IRS systems, such as
IDRS. If this information is not available through a search of IRS systems, then the taxpayer will need to furnish it. If
an authorized signature is missing, the taxpayer will need to provide it. The taxpayer must provide the following:-
Signature of taxpayer(s) or authorized representative. Both spouses signatures are required on joint tax periods if both
spouses are requesting a hearing. -
SSN, ITIN, or EIN. This information should be listed on the Form 12153 but may also be found on the CDP notice, if attached.
If there is no SSN, ITIN or EIN on the Form 12153 or other written hearing request and the CDP notice is not attached, then
attempt to identify the SSN, ITIN or EIN on IRS systems using the taxpayer’s name and address if available. -
Taxpayers name. If the taxpayer supplies the SSN, ITIN, or EIN, the name can be obtained from IRS systems. The request should
not be treated as an imperfect request if this information can be obtained from IRS systems. -
Type of tax/tax period(s). This information should be listed on the Form 12153, but may also be found on the CDP notice, if
attached. If the taxpayer supplies the SSN, ITIN, or EIN, the tax/tax period(s) can be obtained from IRS systems. The request
should not be treated as an imperfect request if this information can be obtained from IRS systems. -
Statement that the taxpayer requests an equivalent hearing. If the taxpayer did not submit Form 12153, but it is evident that
the taxpayer is requesting a hearing, then the taxpayer has met this requirement. For example, if the taxpayer provides the
taxpayers name, address, SSN, and the tax and period at issue, and the IRSs records show that a CDP notice was recently
sent to the taxpayer, then the taxpayer has met this requirement. Similarly, if the taxpayer attached the CDP notice, the
taxpayer has met this requirement. -
Reasons for disagreement with the filing of the Notice of Federal Tax Lien or the levy.
Note:
A request is not imperfect if the request does not have a daytime telephone number or address. If the taxpayer submits an
SSN, ITIN or EIN, then the taxpayer’s last known address should be available on IDRS.Note:
Section 6330 was amended in 2006 to permit the Service to disregard any portion of a hearing request that includes a reason
that appears to be frivolous or reflects a desire to delay or impede the administration of federal tax laws. Under these circumstances
the taxpayer may be denied a hearing. Procedures for disregarding portions of hearing requests or denying hearing requests
altogether will be issued in supplemental Interim Guidance in the future.
-
-
If a request for equivalent hearing is filed timely, but needs to be perfected, make a reasonable attempt to contact the taxpayer
and allow a reasonable time (generally 15 calendar days) for the taxpayer to perfect the request. If taxpayer forgot to sign
the request or failed to furnish required information, the taxpayer may perfect the request by supplying the missing signature
or by providing the missing information. If the request is signed on the taxpayer’s behalf by the taxpayer’s spouse or other
unauthorized representative, the taxpayer may perfect the request by affirming in writing that the request was submitted on
the taxpayer’s behalf. -
If the timely but incomplete equivalent hearing request is processable when received, then it is timely even if the taxpayer
perfects the request late or only perfects the request partially or does not respond. An equivalent hearing request is processable
unless the request is:-
Not signed.
-
Signed but the signer is not authorized to sign on behalf of the taxpayer (example: an unenrolled return preparer or spouse).
-
Signed but the signer does not have proper authorization (no Power of Attorney on file).
-
Does not have a valid SSN, ITIN or EIN and one could not be identified. See 1(b) above.
-
Does not include a reason for the request.
-
-
If the timely but incomplete equivalent hearing request is not processable when received and, within the reasonable time period
specified, the taxpayer perfects the request or partially perfects the request so the request is processable, then the hearing
request is timely filed. Such request is timely even if the perfection occurs after the end of the one-year period. -
If the taxpayer makes the request processable after the reasonable perfection period but before the one-year period expires
for requesting an equivalent hearing, process the request. If the taxpayer makes the request processable after the reasonable
perfection period and after the one-year period expires, the taxpayer is not entitled to an equivalent hearing. Explain to
the taxpayer the one-year period has expired and that the taxpayer can pursue resolution with collection, request a CAP appeal
or request assistance from TAS.Note:
If the taxpayer demonstrates that the late response after the expiration of the one-year period was due to extenuating circumstances,
such as being in the hospital or out of the country during that period, then process the request. -
If after the perfection process the timely but incomplete request is not processable, the taxpayer is not entitled to an equivalent
hearing.-
Notify the taxpayer either orally or in writing that the taxpayers request for an equivalent hearing cannot be processed.
-
Explain that the taxpayer is eligible to make another request for an equivalent hearing on or before the expiration of the
one-year period applicable to section 6320 or 6330. -
If the one year period for requesting an equivalent hearing has expired, explain that the taxpayer can pursue resolution with
Collection, request a CAP appeal, or request assistance from TAS. -
Document the ICS case history with the reason why the request could not be processed. Include a copy of the hearing request
and any written correspondence to and from the taxpayer in the case file.
-
-
If a late filed CDP hearing request is treated as a request for an equivalent hearing and is incomplete, follow the perfection
procedures above.
-
If the taxpayer requests a hearing in response to a notice issued in error, explain the error to the taxpayer.
-
If a NFTL was filed in error and needs to be withdrawn, explain that since the lien is withdrawn the CDP and equivalent hearing
rights associated with the lien are rescinded. The taxpayer will receive CDP hearing rights if the NFTL is subsequently filed.Note:
If a lien is withdrawn in response to a CDP lien determination made by the Office of Appeals, the taxpayer will not get additional
CDP hearing rights if the lien is filed later. -
If an initial CDP levy notice was issued in error, i.e., when levy action was prohibited, explain that the CDP levy notice
will be rescinded and the hearing right associated with the CDP levy notice is rescinded. See IRM 5.11.1.2.2.7. Examples could
include instances where a CDP levy notice is issued when the taxpayer has a pending offer-in-compromise, pending installment
agreement, pending innocent spouse request, is in bankruptcy, or is entitled to relief under the Servicemember’s Civil Relief
Act (SCRA) of 2003, Section 570. Other situations may also apply. If these situations are identified after a CDP hearing request
has been sent to Appeals, Appeals will return the case to the originator for necessary action, i.e., rescinding the notice. -
In situations where a valid CDP levy notice was previously issued, and a subsequent CDP levy notice is issued in error, the
notice issued in error does not afford the taxpayer an additional opportunity to request a hearing. Timeliness of any hearing
request is based on the date of the original CDP levy notice. The original CDP notice is not valid if it was not sent to the
taxpayer’s last known address.
-
Upon receipt of a written request for a CDP hearing, determine if the request is timely. See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.1, Timeliness of
the CDP Hearing Request. If the request is timely, next determine if the request needs to be perfected. If it needs to be
perfected, follow the procedures described in IRM 5.1.9.3.2.2, Perfection of Timely CDP Hearing Requests. -
If the timely request does not need to be perfected, or the request is timely because it is perfected within the reasonable
period specified for perfection, then suspend the CSED. See IRM 5.1.9.3.6, Suspension of Collection Statute of Limitations. -
If the request for CDP hearing is untimely, determine if the request qualifies as a timely request for an equivalent hearing.
See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent Hearing Requests and IRM 5.1.9.3.2.4, Perfection of Timely
Equivalent Hearing Requests. -
In the following situations, hearing requests need to be sent to Appeals solely for a timeliness determination:
-
CDP hearing requests that were untimely received and the taxpayer did not request an equivalent hearing.
-
CDP hearing requests that were timely received yet unprocessable, and after the reasonable time period for perfection specified
by Collection, the taxpayer perfects the request or partially perfects the request so the request is processable and the taxpayer
does not want an equivalent hearing. (If the taxpayer wants an equivalent hearing, process as equivalent hearing request.) -
Equivalent hearing requests that were untimely received.
-
Equivalent hearing requests that were timely yet unprocessable and, after the reasonable time period for perfection specified
by Collection and after the one-year period for requesting an equivalent hearing, the taxpayer perfects the request or partially
perfects the request so the request is processable.
See IRM 5.1.9.3.2.1, Timeliness of the CDP Hearing Request and IRM 5.1.9.3.2.3, Equivalent Hearing and Timeliness of Equivalent
Hearing Requests. If Appeals determines that the request was timely, process the hearing request. -
-
If the taxpayer was not issued a CDP notice, contact the taxpayer and advise the taxpayer of his or her available rights such
as those available through CAP. If it is determined that the CDP notice the taxpayer received was issued in error, refer to
IRM 5.1.9.3.2.5, CDP and Equivalent Hearing Requests in Response to CDP Notices Issued in Error. -
Once it is determined that the CDP or equivalent hearing is processable, request update of the CDP Tracking System (CDPTS)
to document receipt of the hearing request.-
Use Form 12153-A, Referral of Request for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input. See IRM 5.1.9.3.3.3, Form 12153-A, Referral
Request for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input. Note: In certain instances, Stage 1, Hearing Request Received, and Stage
3, Transferred to Appeals, can be requested at the same time. This can occur when a case is promptly transferred to Appeals. -
When the module is added to the CDPTS, a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code 275 or 275 and 630 if it is a CDP
request. The action code 630 is used to exclude module(s) from selection by automated levy programs.
-
-
In the situations listed below, the case file for the CDP or equivalent hearing should be promptly forwarded to Appeals (i.e.,
within 5 business days of the case being ready for Appeals).-
Collection alternatives have already been explored and discussions are at an impasse when the taxpayer requests a CDP hearing;
or -
The taxpayer raises frivolous or constitutional issues; or
-
The taxpayer is not seeking to resolve the issue but using the CDP process as a method for delay, i.e., pyramiding in-business
trust fund taxpayer; or -
The taxpayer does not want to work with Collection after making the request for a CDP hearing.
Note:
A group manager conference does not apply in these situations. The group managers signature on Form 12153-A, signifies manager
concurrence.
-
-
In other situations, the taxpayer may be willing to work with Collection to resolve the issue even after the taxpayer has
requested a hearing with Appeals. Refer to Treas. Reg. 301.6330–1(c)(2), Q&A C-9 and Treas. Reg. 301.6320-1(c)(2), Q&A C-9.
If the taxpayer presents new information or requests collection alternatives not previously considered and if the taxpayer
is willing, the revenue officer should work with the taxpayer to see if the issue can be resolved. If the case can be resolved
prior to Appeals consideration, it expedites the process for the taxpayer.-
When resolution is reached prior to commencement of the CDP hearing, the taxpayer can voluntarily withdraw the request for
a CDP hearing. Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3.3.1, Processing Withdrawal of Request for Collection Due Process Hearing. Advise the taxpayer
that withdrawal of the request will prevent the taxpayer from obtaining judicial review of the collection action/resolution
with respect to the tax and periods included in the hearing request. -
If resolution is reached and the taxpayer does not withdraw his or her request, forward the case file to Appeals.
-
Whenever discussions with the taxpayer reach an impasse, forward the request promptly to Appeals, generally within 5 business
days of the case being ready to be sent to Appeals. -
If after 45 days from receipt of the CDP hearing request, resolution of the taxpayers issues seems likely, secure group manager
concurrence to continue working with the taxpayer towards resolution up to 90 days after receipt of the taxpayers CDP hearing
request. The taxpayers willingness to continue to pursue an agreement beyond a 45–day period should be documented in the
file. If resolution is not expected or cannot be reached within the next 45 days, forward the case file to Appeals. If the
discussions are at an impasse because an appropriate collection resolution, e.g., installment agreement, could not be reached,
the sole appeal rights will be through the CDP or equivalent hearing already requested by the taxpayer. -
In these situations where the taxpayer is seeking resolution, it is appropriate to offer the taxpayer the opportunity to discuss
the issue with the group manager in an effort to reach resolution. The group manager should try to hold the conference with
the taxpayer within 5 business days. If the taxpayer does not wish to have the conference with the group manager but wants to go straight to Appeals, we cannot
require the conference with the group manager as a prerequisite to the CDP hearing. -
The group manager should document the case history with the results of any taxpayer conference. If no conference is held,
the group managers signature on Form 12153-A signifies that the manager has determined that a conference with the taxpayer
is not needed.
-
-
If the taxpayer raises doubt as to liability issues (e.g., SFR or audit assessments) or requests relief from liability (e.g.,
innocent spouse or interest abatements) or claims that a Frivolous Filer Penalty should not have been assessed, request the
administrative file (tax return) and forward it with the CDP hearing request. Document in the ICS history attempts to secure
the file, in the event they are unsuccessful. This does not apply when the doubt as to liability is based on frivolous or
constitutional arguments -
In situations where the taxpayer contests the TFRP liability, Appeals will first review the ICS history to determine if Letter
1153 was hand-delivered or mailed. If the Letter 1153 was hand-delivered, the ICS history entry would serve as a contemporaneous
recording and prima-facie evidence and, therefore, the taxpayer will not be able to challenge the liability at the CDP hearing.
If the Letter 1153 was mailed, Appeals will request a copy of the Letter 1153 and certified mailing listing from Technical
Service/Advisory. Appeals must verify that the taxpayer received the Letter 1153. -
CDP notices issued by automated levy programs (Federal Payment Levy Program, State Income Tax Levy Program, and Alaska Permanent
Fund Program) direct the taxpayer to file the CDP request with the ACS campus CDP units. If a request is received on a case
assigned to a revenue officer, the CDP units will document the ICS system notifying the RO of the request. If the RO has had
contact with the TP, the RO should contact the CDP unit and they will forward the request to the RO for processing to Appeals,
otherwise the CDP unit will process the request. The same procedure applies if ACS issues a CDP levy notice or CDP lien notice
and the case is assigned to a revenue officer by the time the CDP request has been received.
-
A taxpayer that reaches a satisfactory resolution with Collection after filing a request for a CDP hearing can withdraw the
request for a CDP hearing. When resolution is reached, explain to the taxpayer the option to withdraw the request for a CDP
hearing and the effect of doing so, i.e., the taxpayer will lose CDP rights with respect to the CDP tax periods and proposed
collection action, including the right to judicial review. The decision to withdraw belongs to the taxpayer. A taxpayer can
also withdraw the request for hearing with Appeals. -
Form 12256, Withdrawal of Request for Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing, under section 6320 and/or 6330 is available
to taxpayers to use for withdrawing the CDP hearing request. A written request not on Form 12256 will also be honored.Note:
If a withdrawal is not secured, the timely CDP hearing request must be sent to Appeals even if the account is otherwise resolved.
Note:
A withdrawal form is not needed when the taxpayer wants to withdraw a request for an equivalent hearing. If the matter is
resolved and the taxpayer does not want to go to Appeals, document the case history and take the necessary closing actions.
If the taxpayer later disputes the withdrawal of the hearing request, the taxpayer will be given an equivalent hearing. -
If both spouses signed the CDP hearing request, both spouses need to sign the withdrawal. If only one spouse signs the withdrawal,
the CDP hearing request applies to the spouse that did not sign the withdrawal. -
Date stamp the receipt of Form 12256 and maintain with the case file.
-
Upon receipt of the withdrawal request,
-
Request CDP tracking system update to Stage 12 using Form 12153-A, Referral Request for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS
Input. See IRM 5.1.9.3.3.3. -
The suspension of the statute of limitations on the period of collection under the provisions of IRC sections 6320 and 6330
is no longer in effect. -
A TC 520 should not have been input if a withdrawal is secured prior to transfer to Appeals. However, if a TC 520 has been
input, prepare Form 4844, Request for Terminal Action, to request input of the TC 521 cc 76 or 77 for the date the hearing
is final. Forward requests for input to CCP via fax to (215) 516-3691 or e-mail via secured messaging to PHI.CS.GCP@irs.gov
or under the global listing as *CTR PHI CS GCP. CCP has a 24-hour turnaround time frame to input TC 521 CC 76/77. If no TC
520 has been requested, the CSED can be updated if needed. Refer to section 5.1.9.3.6 for information regarding CSED suspension. -
When the module is updated to Stage 12 on the CDP tracking system, a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code 276
if it is a CDP request or action code 279 if it is an equivalent hearing.
-
-
Include Form 12153-A, Referral Request for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input, when referring cases to Appeals.
-
Section I, General Case Information, includes information regarding the hearing request received and the office processing
the request. Section I provides information that is also used to update the CDP tracking system. The date the hearing request
is received is the CDPTS Stage 1 date and is also the TC 520 date, if applicable. -
Section II, Referral Information, provides information to assist Appeals in identifying the issues involved in the case being
referred. It provides the status of the case being referred and addresses the information included with the referral. The
date the hearing request is referred to Appeals is the CDPTS Stage 3, Transfer to Appeals, date. The description of the case
issues and statement of case issues documents why the collection action that is the subject of the hearing request is appropriate
and it also needs to address why the collection alternatives proposed by the taxpayer are not satisfactory. This can also
be documented in a summary statement included in the ICS case history. When this is done, note on the Form 12153-A “See ICS
case history for summary statement”
and give the date of the history item.
-
-
If the taxpayer is an in-business trust fund taxpayer (IBTF) that is not current with employment tax deposits, it is important
that this be clearly reflected on the Form 12153-A, Section II. Appeals gives priority to pyramiding IBTF cases. -
A printout of the ICS history is not required to be included with the referral. Appeals will access ICS to view and print
the case history. -
It is important to forward to Appeals a well-organized and fully documented case file of the collection contacts and actions
taken. Key items to be included in the file are Form 12153-A, CDP hearing request and envelope (if received via mail), copy
of CDP hearing notice, CIS or financial statement, or other correspondence from the taxpayer or POA, and if doubt as to liability
is raised, original or amended return, if available. Include a copy of the Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of
Representative, secured in the field unless it is present on IDRS via command code CFINK. Revenue officers can use optional
Document 11349, RRA Case File Tabs, or other tabs to identify and organize items included in the CDP case file. -
When transferring the case to Appeals, request an update to the CDP tracking system to Stage 3, Transfer, to show that the
request has been forwarded. Form 12153-A, in addition to being a referral form, is also used to request update to the CDP
tracking system. Forward a copy of the request form to CCP for input. Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3.3.3, Form 12153-A, Referral Request
for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input. -
Use the Appeals Case Routing Guide available on the Appeals intranet site to determine the office where the case is to be
sent. Send the hearing request file through the group manager to Appeals using Form 3210, Document Transmittal. -
The group manager will review the referral for completeness and verify that the CDPTS was updated to CDPTS Stage 3 to document
transfer of the case to Appeals. This may be done by printing a screen shot of CDPTRT and including it in the file.Note:
Appeals will return the CDP file if the case has not been added to the CDP tracking system.
-
Maintain a copy of the Form 12153-A with the control file. Follow-up with Appeals within 15 days if the Form 3210 acknowledgement
is not received. -
Effective January 1, 2007, Appeals requests input of the TC 520 cc 76/77. If the TC 520 cc 76/77 was input prior to transfer
to Appeals, note on the front of the Form 12153-A sent to Appeals that the TC 520 cc 76/77 was input.
-
Form 12153-A has a twofold purpose for the collection field function. It is used
-
to request updates to the CDP tracking system; and
-
to transmit cases to Appeals.
-
-
Form 12153-A is available as an ICS macro and as a PDF fillable document on the intranet via the Publishing Services catalog.
-
Form 12153-A includes a section for requesting CDPTS input. Check the applicable input being requested and complete the appropriate
section(s).-
Stage 1, Hearing Request Recd, needs to be input when a CDP or equivalent hearing request is received.
-
Stage 3, Transferred to Appeals, needs to be input when a CDP or equivalent hearing request is being referred to Appeals.
When the transfer of the case to Appeals occurs promptly after receipt of the hearing request, i.e., within 5 days, Stage
1 and Stage 3 may be requested at the same time. Within 2 business days of the request to CCP to place the account in Stage
3, check CDPTRT to verify the CDP tracking system has been updated. Resubmit the request, as Priority – 2nd Request, if the
account is not in Stage 3. -
Stage 12, Hearing Request Withdrawn, needs to be input when a CDP or equivalent hearing request is withdrawn prior to being
transferred to Appeals. The Form 12153-A used to request input showing Hearing Request Recd, can be updated to request input
of Stage 12. -
Stage 14, Case Recd from Appeals, needs to be input when the CDP or equivalent hearing is received back from Appeals. Input
of Stage 14 acknowledges receipt.Note:
Form 12153-A is no longer used to request input of the TC 520. Effective January 1, 2007, Appeals inputs the TC 520 cc 76/77
when applicable.
-
-
Requests for CDPTS input are sent to Centralized Case Processing (CCP). Requests should be sent via e-mail secured messaging
to PHI.CS.GCP@irs.gov. If e-mail is not available, requests can be faxed to (215) 516-3691. The e-mail address can also be
found in the global listing as *CTR PHI CS GCP. Inputs will generally be done within 24 hours.Note:
Do not forward CDP or equivalent hearing case files meant for Appeals to CCP. Only requests for inputs are sent to CCP.
-
Appeals updates the case to Stage 4 when a case is received. Appeals also uses the CDPTS to request input of the TC 520. Appeals
cannot update the case to Stage 4 unless the case is on the CDPTS. Appeals will return cases that are NOT on the CDPTS. Including
a print screen shot of CDPTRT will assist Appeals in verifying upon receipt that the case is on the CDPTS. -
If the data on the CDP tracking system needs to be corrected, notate the correction on Form 12153-A and forward to CCP for
update. Identify the request as a request for correction. -
Form 12153-A is also required to be sent with cases referred to Appeals. See IRM 5.1.9.3.3.2, Preparing Case for Transmittal
to Appeals.
-
Cases referred to Appeals need to be controlled on ICS. Open an Other Investigation (OI) when the CDP case file is forwarded
to Appeals. When establishing the OI, use entity sub-code 967 to indicate that the CDP case file has been forwarded to Appeals.
An OI should be opened for the CDP modules even if there are other periods open that are not part of the CDP hearing. If other
periods close prior to the conclusion of the CDP proceeding, the case will not drop off of ICS. -
For timely filed CDP hearing requests, Appeals will input the TC 520 cc 76/77. This will place the module in status 72. The
OI serves as a control while the case is pending in Appeals. It also allows Appeals to access ICS to review the case history.
Settlement officers will enter into the ICS history when they close a case to the Appeals Team Manager. The ICS entry, when
cases are closed, should state: the date and the result of the Appeals determination, whether a waiver (Form 12257, Summary
Notice of Determination) was secured and the specifics of the resolution. -
For an equivalent hearing no TC 520 is input. The account remains in status 26, so an OI is not required. However, if the
account moves out of status 26 while the hearing is still pending in Appeals, an OI is required for the equivalent hearing
case. -
While cases are pending in Appeals, monitor the case at the following key points:
-
Within 15 days of transferring a case to Appeals via Form 3210, the field should follow-up if an acknowledgement is not received.
This can be done by checking the CDP Tracking System (CDPTS) via command code CDPTRT to see if the account is in Stage 4,
Appeals Receipt or by calling the Appeals office where the case was sent. -
Within 6 months after assignment, the ICS history should reflect a determination/decision.
-
Within 90 days of the determination, closing actions should be completed unless a judicial appeal has been filed. The CDPTS
will be updated to Stage 13 when closing actions have been taken.
When following up with Appeals, the RO group manager should e-mail the SO team manager for an update to minimize the possibility
of ex parte discussions. -
-
While the case is pending in Appeals, the group manager may want to have the case uniquely assigned within the group for purposes
of control and monitoring. In other instances, it may be appropriate to keep the case assigned to the revenue officer. -
Revenue officers need to monitor compliance of in-business trust fund cases that they refer to Appeals while the case is pending
in Appeals. Subsequent compliance should continue to be documented in the case history. If the taxpayer is assessed additional
tax periods while the case is pending in Appeals, determine whether levy action is appropriate and take any necessary actions,
such as issuing the pre-levy CDP notice. See IRM 5.7.8, Trust Fund Compliance – In-business Repeater Trust Fund Taxpayer,
for additional information on in-business trust fund repeaters.
-
If the taxpayer files a timely request for a CDP hearing during the IRC 6330 notice period, levy actions on the periods that
are the subject of the CDP notice, except in jeopardy situations, levies on state income tax refunds or disqualified employment
tax levies, must be suspended during the appeal period and while any court proceedings are pending. -
During an appeal to the Tax Court or appellate court, where the underlying tax is not at issue, levy action may continue if
the court determines that the Service has shown good cause not to suspend the levy. Counsel will contact Collection if they
are considering a motion to permit levy. In addition, if Collection is aware of situations that warrant levying during the
judicial appeal, i.e., pyramiding cases where there are leviable assets, Collection should prepare a memo requesting Associate
Area Counsel to file or request a motion with the court to allow the Service to take levy action. If the court grants the
motion, Counsel will contact the assigned revenue officer so that levy action can proceed immediately.Note:
Levy action is not required to be suspended on EH modules and non-CDP tax periods that are not part of the CDP case, but
are included in a collection alternative that is being reviewed by the Court. The Counsel attorney assigned the CDP case will
contact the collection office assigned the case if special circumstances require levy action on non-CDP modules to be suspended. -
Levy action is suspended only for the tax periods that are the subject of the CDP hearing. Levy action can continue on tax
periods not subject to the CDP hearing, provided all pre-levy notifications have been met. When it is identified that collection
is at risk, Collection personnel should initiate the appropriate actions to protect the governments interest. Evidence that
the taxpayer is dissipating assets or pyramiding additional tax liabilities while in Appeals are indicators that collection
may be at risk. See IRM 5.7.8, Trust Fund Compliance – In-Business Repeater Trust Fund Taxpayers for additional information. -
Prior to initiating levy action against the non-CDP tax modules, check IDRS for actions that may prohibit levy action, i.e.,
TC 480 (OIC) or TC 971 ac 043 (PPAGR). If there is no evidence on TXMODs of actions in Appeals that would be grounds to delay
or prohibit enforcement, then contact the Appeals Team Manager of the assigned hearing officer, preferably via e-mail, to
advise them that levy action is planned. Determine whether Appeals has new information that may prohibit levy or may affect
the decision to levy. For example, if Appeals has determined economic hardship within the meaning of IRC 6343 or secured an
installment agreement or offer in compromise, levy action is not appropriate. The group manager must concur with the planned
levy action during the CDP hearing. -
When a taxpayer files a timely request for a CDP hearing during the IRC 6320 notice period, levy actions are not required
to be suspended. Refer to Treas. Reg., 301.6320-1(g)(2) Q&A G3. As a general rule, levy action is suspended pending the Appeals
determination on the lien. Levy action can be taken if it is determined that collection is at risk. Prior to initiating levy
action against the tax modules that are the subject of a CDP hearing under IRC 6320, check IDRS for actions that may prohibit
levy action, i.e., TC 480 (OIC) or TC 971 ac 043 (PPAGR). If there is no evidence on TXMODs of actions in Appeals that would
be grounds to delay or prohibit enforcement, then contact the Appeals Team Manager of the assigned hearing officer, preferably
via e-mail, to advise them that levy action is planned. Determine whether Appeals has new information that may affect the
decision to levy. For example, if Appeals has determined economic hardship within the meaning of IRC 6343 or secured an installment
agreement or offer in compromise, levy action is not appropriate. -
In joint liability situations, where only one spouse has requested a CDP hearing, levy action can continue with respect to
the spouse who has not requested a CDP hearing. This may occur in situations where the spouses are separated or divorced.
Otherwise, levy action will generally be suspended for both spouses. If the hearing request was intended to cover both taxpayers,
the CDP hearing request can be amended to list both spouses. The spouse whose name is added should also sign the request for
a CDP hearing. -
In a situation where a levy has been issued, and then the taxpayer files an appeal, either a timely CDP hearing under IRC
6320 or an equivalent hearing under IRC 6320 or 6330, determine if the levy should be released.Example:
The taxpayer does not respond to the pre-levy notice. A continuous wage levy is issued. The revenue officer then files a Notice
of Federal Tax Lien. The taxpayer receives the IRC 6320 CDP hearing notice and files a timely request for a CDP hearing. A
decision needs to be made whether or not to release the levy. Refer to IRM 5.11.2.2.1, Legal Basis for Releasing Levies. -
Levy action during an equivalent hearing is not required to be suspended. However, as a general rule, even though not required
by statute, levy action is generally suspended pending the Appeals determination. Levy action can be taken if it is determined
to be appropriate in the situation. Levy action may be appropriate if:-
collection is at risk, e.g., dissipating assets, pyramiding additional liabilities;
-
the taxpayer raises only frivolous or constitutional issues;
-
the taxpayer is seeking solely to delay the collection process.
Prior to initiating levy action, advise Appeals that levy action is planned. Check with Appeals to determine whether they
have new information that may prohibit levy or may affect the decision to levy. For example, if Appeals has determined economic
hardship or secured an installment agreement or offer in compromise, levy action is not appropriate. The group manager must
concur with the planned levy action during the equivalent hearing. -
-
Actions under automated levy programs, such as the State Income Tax Levy Program (SITLP) and the Federal Payment Levy Program
(FPLP), are not suspended during an equivalent hearing. If appropriate, the automated levy block, TC 971 AC 061, can be placed
on each appropriate module. Refer to IRM 5.11.7, Automated Levy Programs. -
If the taxpayer alleges economic hardship under section 6343, consider whether return of levied property is appropriate. In
a situation where a levy is pending when the taxpayer files a request for an equivalent hearing, determine if the levy should
be released.
-
The statute of limitations is suspended from the date the Service receives a timely request for a CDP hearing to the date
the taxpayer withdraws his or her request for a CDP hearing or the date the determination from Appeals becomes final, including
any litigation. The Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED) is suspended even if the account is full paid as long as the
taxpayer does not agree with the offset/payment that full paid the account.-
The date the determination from Appeals becomes final is the date the 30-day period within which the taxpayer could appeal
to the Tax Court expires, if the taxpayer does not exercise his/her right to seek judicial review (or 90 days, if the CDP
petition includes innocent spouse relief, 180 days, if CDP petition includes interest abatement). -
If the taxpayer timely petitions the Tax Court, the statute of limitations is suspended and the determination is not final
until the court determination becomes final including any appellate court decision. -
If 90 days is not remaining on the statute of limitations when the determination becomes final, the statute of limitations
is extended to equal 90 days.
-
-
Upon receipt of a hearing request, determine if the collection statute needs to be suspended. The collection statute is suspended
only when a taxpayer files a timely request for a CDP hearing. The collection statute is not suspended on equivalent hearing cases.Example: On 03/15/2002, a taxpayer receives a 6330 notice for 941 taxes for the quarter ended 12/31/2001 while the account is in ACS.
No request for a CDP hearing is filed. The account is transferred to the Collection Field function. A 941 tax return for the
quarter ending 03/31/2002 is received. The revenue officer issues a CDP levy notice on 06/10/2002 for the quarter ending 03/31/2002.
The taxpayer files a Request for a Collection Due Process Hearing on 06/30/2002 that lists both quarters and includes a copy
of the notice sent by the revenue officer. The taxpayer would be entitled to receive the following:-
941 for 12/31/2001 – an equivalent hearing, no suspension of the collection statute.
-
941 for 03/31/2002 – a CDP hearing, collection statute is suspended.
-
-
When the CDP collection statute suspension occurs at the same time but differs with other applicable collection statute suspensions,
e.g., those under the innocent spouse provisions of IRC 6015 or bankruptcy, the latest suspension period controls.
-
A TC 520 identifies the beginning date of the collection statute suspension.
-
When the collection statute expiration date (CSED) is to be suspended, Appeals will request input of the TC 520 with the appropriate
closing code for each module subject to the CSED suspension. Appeals will generally use the date the RO lists on the Form
12153-A as the date the hearing request was received as the TC 520 date. For CDP hearing requests that are received after
the 30-day time period for making a timely request but are postmarked as timely, use the postmark date as the receipt date. -
TC 520 cc 76 is used if the CDP hearing request is made in response to a lien CDP notice (IRC 6320). TC 520 cc 77 is used
if the CDP hearing request is made in response to a levy CDP notice (IRC 6330). If both IRC 6320 and IRC 6330 are applicable,
use TC 520 cc 76. Prior to January 2000, TC 520 cc 70 was used for CDP hearing requests. -
For TC 520s and TC 521s posted as of January 2001, the CSED is systemically calculated and updated. If the recomputed CSED
is less than 90 days from the TC 521, the CSED is extended to equal 90 days. The exception to the systemic update of the CSED
is IMF accounts involving joint income tax liabilities where only one spouse has requested the hearing. For MFT 30 accounts,
input the appropriate IMF CSED TIN indicator with the TC 520. The indicators are as follows:-
“P”
– CSED suspended only for the primary TIN spouse. -
“S”
– CSED suspended only for the secondary TIN spouse. -
“B”
– CSED suspended on both primary and secondary TINS. The CSED is systemically updated when the CSED indicator is “B”
.
The CSED is still suspended for the particular spouse when the CSED indicator is “P”
or “S”
. However, the module will reflect the earliest CSED. When needed, the CSED reflected on the module can be manually updated
by the input of a TC 550 with action code 10. -
-
A TC 521 is needed to identify the ending period of the CSED suspension. This would be the date the hearing determination
is final or the hearing request is withdrawn. If TC 520 with CC 76 or 77 posted in cycle 200101 or later, it must be reversed
using TC 521 with CC 76 or 77. If the TC 520 CC 76 or 77 posted BEFORE cycle 200101, then it must be reversed using TC 521
WITHOUT closing code.
-
When a corporation/partnership owing trust fund taxes requests a CDP hearing or equivalent hearing (EH), the Trust Fund Recovery
Penalty (TFRP) needs to be addressed. There is no prohibition against asserting the TFRP against responsible officers while
the CDP/EH is pending. Since the statutory period of limitations for assessing the TFRP is not suspended while the CDP/EH hearing is pending, the TFRP investigation should continue unless the revenue officer has a reasonable
expectation of the account being fully satisfied. -
The revenue officer should note in the case history whether or not the TFRP investigation is continuing. The investigation
can proceed as far as the assertion of the penalty against each responsible person. This includes providing each responsible
person with his or her TFRP appeal rights. Before proceeding with assessment of the TFRP, the revenue officer needs to contact
Appeals to determine if there is any new information that would affect the decision to assess. In some instances, it may be
appropriate to withhold assessment of the TFRP pending the outcome of the hearing.
-
FTM is available to taxpayers that qualify for a CDP or equivalent hearing. A taxpayer can request FTM after a CDP notice
is issued. Advise taxpayers considering FTM, that a request for FTM does not extend the time for filing a request for a CDP
hearing. Taxpayers requesting FTM during the time period for filing a CDP hearing request must also submit a hearing request
to preserve their right to a hearing. -
After a request for a hearing is filed, taxpayers can request FTM before the case is transferred to Appeals.
-
For a CDP case to qualify for FTM, the taxpayer must have filed all required returns and must be current with employment tax
deposits (i.e., are not pyramiding additional employment tax liabilities). In addition, the taxpayer must present complete
information regarding the proposed resolution, such as complete financial information. If the taxpayer meets the requirements,
the revenue officer may offer the taxpayer the option of using FTM to expedite resolution of the case. This can be done by
explaining the FTM option to the taxpayer and providing the taxpayer with Publication 3605, Fast Track Mediation. -
Prior to FTM the taxpayer may first request a conference with the manager. If resolution is not reached, the taxpayer can
submit a request for FTM. Both the taxpayer and the RO must sign an agreement to mediate prior to mediation being scheduled.
Collection does not have to agree to mediation. However, denial of a mediation request requires approval of the group manager
and concurrence by the second level manager. The basis for the denial will be communicated to the taxpayer and documented
in the case history. -
If Fast Track Mediation is recommended, Collection employees will be responsible for completing Form 13369, Agreement to Mediate,
and a brief summary of issues. The summary is done in a memorandum form. Forward both documents to Appeals. Mediators (Appeals
employees) will conduct the session; however, they will not have settlement authority. The taxpayer does not have the option
of using a non-IRS employee as a mediator. Both parties must agree in order to reach a resolution. Taxpayers need to be advised
that if mediation results in an agreement between the taxpayer and Collection, the taxpayer must withdraw the hearing request
as part of the final agreement or no agreement will be reached and the case will be forwarded to Appeals for the CDP hearing. -
The signed Agreement to Mediate and Summary of Issues should be forwarded to the local Appeals Office within three business
days of obtaining the taxpayers signature. Jurisdiction and statute of limitation responsibility remains with Collection
and, therefore, the case file is not forwarded to Appeals. Local Appeals and Collection offices will work out their own procedures
for prompt transmittal of cases to the local Appeals office. -
Collection will send a copy of the Agreement to Mediate to the taxpayer or representative. The mediator will attempt to schedule
the mediation session with the taxpayer and Collection within five business days after the case is assigned in Appeals. Generally,
the mediation begins with an initial joint discussion at which all parties are present. Both the taxpayer and Collection will
be given time to present their position. After the initial joint discussion, the mediator may hold individual discussions
with the parties. At any time, either party may withdraw from the process prior to reaching a resolution by notifying the
other party and the mediator in writing. The entire process normally takes an average of 30-40 days to complete. If the mediation
session cannot be held within a reasonable amount of time, the mediator may consider returning the request. The mediator will
attempt to bring the parties to a mutual resolution of the issues during the mediation session. If, after a reasonable time,
it is apparent that the parties will not reach resolution, the mediator may terminate the mediation session and the case will
be referred to Appeals for the CDP hearing. If resolution is reached, the taxpayer needs to withdraw the hearing request to
finalize the agreement. If the taxpayer does not withdraw the request for a hearing, the case goes forward to Appeals. -
Refer to Rev. Proc. 2003-41, 2003-1 C.B 1047, SB/SE – Appeals Fast Track Mediation Procedures, for additional information.
-
Appeals will make the final determination about timeliness of a CDP or equivalent hearing request. If the CDP hearing request
is timely, the taxpayer will receive a CDP hearing. If the CDP hearing request is untimely, the taxpayer will receive an equivalent
hearing if the taxpayer wants one. In both instances, the hearing is held by the Office of Appeals. It is conducted by an
officer or employee who has had no prior involvement with respect to the unpaid tax. However, the taxpayer may waive this
requirement. -
To the extent practicable, a hearing under IRC 6320 shall be held in conjunction with a hearing under IRC 6330.
-
The appeals officer is required to verify that the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code or administrative procedure with
respect to the proposed collection action have been met. Appeals will verify that the taxpayer has a tax liability for the
period and its amount and that procedures for filing the NFTL or issuing the L-1058 have been met, so completion of preliminary
actions must be documented. Appeals will rely on the information in the case file or will seek clarification of items that
appear to be incomplete within the case file. -
Collection will secure information pertaining to the taxpayers appeal, such as verification of financial information and
courthouse check. Appeals will request this information via an Appeals Referral Investigation (ARI) or Form 2209, Courtesy
Investigation. The request will state the specific information requested. If additional contact with the taxpayer is needed,
Collection will make the contact on behalf of Appeals. -
During the appeal process, the taxpayer or his or her representative may raise at the hearing any relevant issue relating
to the unpaid tax or the proposed levy, including:-
appropriate spousal defenses;
-
challenges to the appropriateness of collection actions; and
-
offers of collection alternatives, which may include the posting of a bond, the substitution of other assets, an installment
agreement, or an offer-in-compromise.
-
-
The taxpayer may also raise issues related to an economic hardship determination.
-
The taxpayer may also raise challenges to the existence or amount of the underlying tax liability including a liability reported
on a self-filed return for any tax period specified on the CDP notice if he or she did not receive a statutory notice of deficiency
for such tax liability or did not otherwise have an opportunity to dispute such tax liability. -
A non-liability issue may not be raised at the hearing if:
-
The issue was raised and considered at a previous hearing under section 6320 or in any other previous administrative hearing
before appeals or judicial proceeding; and -
The person seeking to raise the issue participated meaningfully in such hearing or proceeding.
-
This prohibition does not apply to consideration of collection alternatives when there has been a significant change in the
taxpayers financial condition. In that situation, a taxpayer may continue to make new proposals for an OIC or IA, or other
collection alternative, even if one was raised and rejected at a previous hearing or administrative proceeding.
-
-
During a CDP or an equivalent hearing assigned to Appeals, an offer in compromise (OIC) may be submitted by the taxpayer as
a collection alternative resolution. See IRM Section 8.22.2.4.7 for procedures on offers submitted during CDP or EH hearings. -
In some instances the determination of an acceptable offer amount may require input from Collection. Appeals will generally
work the offer investigation internally using electronic research sources and taxpayer documentation, particularly when the
offer is not complex or does not require any field verification. If complex financial analysis issues surface, either regarding
particular asset(s) or the offer as a whole, Appeals may send an Appeals Referral Investigation (ARI) to Collection for assistance.
Appeals will retain jurisdiction of the offer in these instances. -
An ARI on Form 2209, Courtesy Investigation, or Form 10467, Appeals Division Feedback Report and Transmittal Memorandum, requesting
CIS investigation and analysis will be assigned to a revenue officer in the field office covering the taxpayers location. -
Completed CIS investigations are returned to Appeals via Form 3210, Document Transmittal.
-
The Appeals determination will take into consideration the following:
-
the verification that the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and administrative procedure have been met;
-
the issues being raised; and,
-
whether any proposed collection action balances the need for the efficient collection of taxes with the legitimate concern
of the person that any collection action be no more intrusive than necessary.
-
-
For a timely filed due process hearing, the taxpayer will receive a Notice of Determination letter that explains the taxpayer’s
right to petition Tax Court within 30 days of the date of the letter. -
For an equivalent hearing, the taxpayer will receive a decision letter. In an equivalent hearing, the decision by Appeals
is final, and there is no appeal to court, except as it relates to certain spousal defenses under IRC 6015 (if a petition
is filed within 90 days after notice of determination is issued), denial of a request for interest abatement (if a petition
is filed within 180 days after denial), or if the taxpayer disagrees with Appeals decision that the taxpayers CDP hearing
request was not timely. -
In both the Notice of Determination letter and decision letter, Appeals will provide clear information regarding any agreement
reached with the taxpayer, any relief given, and any necessary actions required by Collection. If the tax liability is upheld
or the enforcement action is appropriate, the letter will so state, even if the appeals officer decides to provide the taxpayer
a different collection alternative. The letter will also set forth specific ramifications should the taxpayer not comply with
the terms of the agreement. -
Appeals will generally follow the Service guidelines for collection set forth in the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM). Appeals,
however, also considers the impact of the hazards of litigation, which may be applicable especially if tax liability is the
issue. In addition, Appeals is required to balance tax collection needs with the legitimate concerns of the taxpayer that
any collection action be no more intrusive than necessary and renders its determination accordingly. -
Appeals will update the ICS history when a determination or a decision has been reached. For CDP cases, this is provided as
information only. No action in a CDP case should be taken to implement the determination until after the Notice of Determination
is final, including any court appeals, and the case file is returned to Collection. If there are any questions regarding the
determination, contact the Appeals employee for clarification. ICS entries by Appeals are not intended to invite discussion
or comment by Collection. Such a discussion could be interpreted as a prohibited ” ex parte”
discussion between Appeals and Collection.
-
After Appeals makes its determination in a CDP hearing, the taxpayer may, within 30 days of the date of the determination
letter, petition the Tax Court. -
To allow time to be notified of any court petitions, Appeals will hold cases subject to Tax Court review for an additional
30 days (60 days after issuance of the Notice of Determination). If the taxpayer reaches an agreement with Appeals and does
not wish to go to court, Appeals employees may use Form 12257, which serves as a summary Notice of Determination, and waives
the right to go to court and the suspension of levy action. If the taxpayer waives the right to judicial review, the determination
is final and the case can be returned to collection. -
If a taxpayer files an appeal to Tax Court, Appeals updates the CDP tracking system to Stage 8, Tax Court Appeal. Collection
can check the status on the CDP tracking system to identify cases where a judicial appeal has been filed or they can call
the Appeals office to determine the status of the case.Note:
Once Appeals issues the notice of determination, the taxpayer may raise collection alternatives with Collection. If the taxpayer
has an appeal pending in Tax Court, notify the Counsel attorney assigned the CDP case regarding the proposed collection alternative
or if full payment is received. -
In an equivalent hearing, the decision is final when Appeals issues its decision letter, except as it relates to certain spousal
defenses under IRC 6015, denials of interest abatement under IRC 6404. -
Once the hearing determination is final, Appeals will send the case to the Appeals Processing Service (APS) for backend processing.
APS will input the TC 521, when applicable. If the case is resolved in Appeals, i.e., Appeals secured a collection alternative
or other resolution that resolved the case, APS will take the necessary closing actions. APS will forward the file to the
referring Collection group with a copy of the Notice of Determination or decision letter, as applicable, and a copy of the
Appeals Case Memo (ACM), when applicable.Note:
The ACM is now generally incorporated into the attachment to the Notice of Determination or Decision letter.
-
APS will update the CDPTS to Stage 13, Appeals Case Closed – Sent to Collection. Effective January 24, 2003, when Appeals
updates the CDPTS to Stage 13, a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code 277 if it is a CDP request, or action code
280 if it is an equivalent hearing. These action codes identify when the hearing request is closed in Appeals. In addition,
if resolution is reached, Appeals will update the case to Stage 24. -
Upon receipt of the case back from Appeals, acknowledge receipt of the case on the CDPTS by requesting input of Stage 14,
Closed Case Recd from Appeals. Form 12153-A can be used to request input of Stage 14. Refer to IRM 5.1.9.3.3.3, Form 12153-A,
Referral Request for CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input. -
The revenue officer will review the determination and document a plan of action with respect to the determination. Keep the
OI for the CDP case open until all closing actions are taken by Appeals or the case is returned to inventory. If the closing
action isnt taken or case returned within a reasonable time after the determination, i.e., 90 days, follow-up to determine
the reason for delay.
-
The Office of Appeals retains jurisdiction with respect to any Notice of Determination issued under IRC 6320 or IRC 6330,
including subsequent appeals requested by the taxpayer who requested the original Collection Due Process hearing on issues
regarding:-
Whether the taxpayer believes that the Collection function did not carry out Appeals determination as it was stated.
-
Whether there is a change in the taxpayers circumstances which affects Appeals determination.
-
-
Taxpayers, who request subsequent review of their case by Appeals under the changed circumstance provision under retained
jurisdiction, must first exhaust all administrative remedies, such as having a conference with the Collection manager. -
If there has been a change in circumstances with respect to the taxpayer affecting the 6320 or 6330 determination, Appeals,
under the retained jurisdiction provision, may consider only those issues that were raised and considered at the previous
hearing. -
The statutory period for collection is not suspended during the retained jurisdiction proceeding.
-
Lien and levy actions are not required by statute to be suspended. However, as a policy matter, even when not required by
statute, levy action is generally suspended unless collection is at risk. When it is identified that collection is at risk,
Collection personnel should initiate the appropriate actions to protect the governments interest. Evidence that the taxpayer
is dissipating assets is an example where collection is at risk. Also, pyramiding of additional tax liabilities, including
unpaid employment tax deposits and unfiled tax returns while in Appeals, are indicators that collection may be at risk. See
IRM 5.7.8, In-Business Trust Fund Taxpayers,for additional information regarding in-business trust fund taxpayers. The group
manager must concur with the planned levy action during the appeal. Appeals must be advised immediately of any decision to
take levy action. -
Actions under automated levy programs, such as the State Income Tax Levy Program (SITLP) and the Federal Payment Levy Program
(FPLP), are not suspended during a retained jurisdiction hearing. Appeals can address the lien or levy action during the retained
jurisdiction hearing. -
Similar to a Collection Appeal Program (CAP) appeal (see IRM 5.1.9.4), the taxpayer will receive a letter upon completion
of the review under the retained jurisdiction provision. The decision by Appeals is final with no judicial review.
-
There are three exceptions to the pre-levy notice requirements of IRC 6330. They are:
-
when the collection of tax is in jeopardy under section 6331(a), or
-
a levy is served on a State to collect a Federal tax liability from a State tax refund, referred to as the State Income Tax
Levy Program (SITLP), or -
a disqualified employment tax levy is served.
-
-
In the above situations, when the taxpayer has not previously received a 6330 Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your
Right to a Hearing, the taxpayer will be given the opportunity for a hearing within a reasonable period of time after the
levy. In a jeopardy levy situation, the taxpayer receives Letter 2439 which advises the taxpayer of the right to request a
hearing under IRC 6330. Under SITLP, the taxpayer receives CP 92 or CP 242, Notice of Levy on Your State Tax Refund, Notice
of Your Right to a Hearing. Refer to the Notice of Levy Handbook, IRM 5.11.3, Jeopardy Levy Without a Jeopardy Assessment.
-
A disqualified employment tax levy (DETL) is comprised of these three components:
-
Its a levy served to collect an employment tax liability;
-
The levy is for taxes owed by a taxpayer who previously requested a CDP levy hearing;
-
The prior CDP hearing involved unpaid employment taxes that arose in the two-year period before the period for which the levy
is served.
Even if a taxpayers employment tax liabilities meet the criteria for a DETL, this action is discretionary. The Service has
the option to issue a pre-levy CDP notice for DETL periods, if the situation warrants. For example, the issuance of a pre-levy
notice ight be advisable if no IRC 6331(d) notice has been issued or there has been no contact with the taxpayer within the
last 180 days. -
-
The prior request refers to a timely, processable CDP hearing request. Refer to IRM 5.1.9 for information regarding the timeliness
and processability of CDP hearing requests. Even if the request is subsequently withdrawn, it qualifies as a prior hearing
request.Note:
Requests for an equivalent hearing or untimely requests for CDP hearings do not satisfy the requirement of having had a prior
hearing request. Thus, if the taxpayer requests an equivalent hearing or submits an untimely request for a CDP hearing, that
request cannot be used as a basis for a DETL.Note:
A post-levy request for a CDP hearing made in response to a Letter 1058-D, Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to Hearing,
regarding a post-levy CDP notice, a state refund levy or a jeopardy levy also can constitute a prior CDP levy hearing request
as a basis for a DETL. -
The following can be helpful in determining if the taxpayer requested a prior CDP levy hearing involving unpaid employment
taxes.-
First hand knowledge of a prior CDP levy hearing. In most instances involving pyramiding trust fund taxpayers, the revenue
officer assigned the case will be aware of previously requested hearings. -
Case history.
-
A TC 971 ac 630 on prior modules indicates a prior timely levy hearing request. The TC 971 ac 630 is generated when a timely
CDP levy hearing request is added to the CDP tracking system. -
By contacting Appeals at 559-456-5931 to see if they have record of a prior hearing request received in Appeals.
-
-
In addition to seeing if the taxpayer requested a CDP levy hearing from a pre- or post-levy CDP notice, check to see if the
hearing request involved employment taxes arising and ending within the two-year period before the beginning of the taxable
period for which the DETL is served. The two-year look back period is measured from the beginning of the period for which
the DETL is served. If the taxpayer requested a CDP levy hearing for employment taxes arising during a calendar quarter that
ended during the two-year period, the module meets the criteria for a DETL.-
Example 1: The taxpayer requests a timely CDP levy hearing for Form 941 taxes for quarter ended 12/31/2007. The taxpayer accrues
an additional employment tax liability for the quarter ended 06/30/2008. This additional liability qualifies for DETL levy
because the taxpayer requested a prior levy hearing for a quarter that ended (12/31/2007) within the two-year look back period
(04/01/2006 thru 04/01/2008) -
Example 2: The taxpayer requests a timely CDP levy hearing for Form 941 taxes for quarter ended 03/31/2007. The taxpayer is
assessed an additional employment tax liability for the quarter ended 12/31/2005. This liability does NOT qualify for a DETL
levy because the taxpayer requested a prior levy hearing for a quarter that ended (03/31/2007) outside the two-year look back
period (10/01/2003 thru 10/01/2005)
-
-
If a DETL is served, the post-levy CDP notice is sent with the taxpayer’s copy of the levy. This should be done as soon as
possible but no more than 10-days after the levy. Letter 1058-D, Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing is used
to provide post levy CDP rights. If using the mail to deliver the post-levy CDP notice, it should be sent to the taxpayers
last known address by certified or registered mail. Use Letter 1058(D), Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing.
Include a copy of the levy, Form 12153, Pub 594 and Pub 1660 with the letter. Note: If the taxpayer received a pre-levy
CDP notice for the period being levied, do not issue a post-levy CDP notice. -
Process the post-levy DETL hearing request in the same way as other hearing requests. If a timely filed post-levy CDP hearing
request is filed, the CSED is suspended. Document, for the benefit of Appeals, either in the case history or on Form 12153-A,
whether continued collection action is planned. -
A DETL may be served during a timely requested pre- or post-levy CDP hearing or judicial review of such hearing to collect
employment tax liabilities (DETL tax periods) subject to the hearing. For example, a DETL may be served during a hearing or
judicial review if collection is at risk (e.g., taxpayer’s business is deteriorating or taxpayer is pyramiding).-
If the DETL is to take place during the hearing, check IDRS for actions that may prohibit levy action, i.e., TC 480 or TC
971 ac 043. If there are no apparent TC codes, then contact the Appeals Team Manager of the assigned hearing officer, preferably
via e-mail, to inform Appeals that levy action will be taken. Determine whether Appeals has information that prohibits levy
or may affect the decision to levy. -
If the DETL is to take place during judicial review, contact the Counsel attorney assigned the case to advise him or her of
the planned levy action and to determine if there is any new information that may affect the decision to levy.
Note:
In determining if a DETL is permitted during the hearing or judicial review to collect employment taxes subject to the hearing,
the request giving rise to the hearing cannot be used as a basis for the DETL. -
-
In addition to the Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing rights discussed above, taxpayers can also appeal certain collection
actions under the Collection Appeals Program (CAP). If a taxpayer seeking to file a CAP appeal is also entitled to a CDP hearing,
tell the taxpayer that there is a strict time frame for requesting a CDP hearing. Document the discussion in the case history.
The decision to request a CDP hearing or a CAP appeal belongs to the taxpayer. If an issue is raised and decided in a CAP
appeal and the taxpayer participated meaningfully, it may not be raised in a CDP hearing, unless new information is presented.
The determination about whether an issue raised in a CAP appeal can be raised in a CDP hearing will be made by Appeals. A
CAP appeal can provide an expedited review of a specific collection action that may satisfactorily address the taxpayers
concern. The CDP hearing provides for further judicial review and retained jurisdiction. -
Taxpayers can appeal under CAP when they are told by an IRS employee that a lien, levy or seizure action will be or has been
taken, or that an installment agreement is rejected or terminated. The taxpayer’s right to appeal under CAP is connected to
the specific planned or actual collection action. -
The time frame for filing a CAP appeal for an installment agreement is as follows:
-
For rejected installment agreements — The taxpayer has 30 days to request an appeal after the proposed installment agreement
is rejected. Levy is prohibited during this time and is systemically stayed 15 additional days to allow for mailing and receipt
of the request. If the taxpayer timely appeals, levy continues to be prohibited until the appeal is closed. -
For defaulted/proposed termination of an installment agreement — The taxpayer has 30 days to request an appeal after termination
of an installment agreement is proposed. Levy is prohibited during this time and is systemically stayed 15 additional days
to allow for mailing and receipt of the request. If the taxpayer timely appeals, levy continues to be prohibited until the
appeal is closed. -
For terminated installment agreements — The taxpayer has 30 days to request an appeal after an installment agreement is terminated.
Levy is prohibited during this time and is systemically stayed 15 additional days to allow for mailing and receipt of the
request. If the taxpayer timely appeals, levy continues to be prohibited until the appeal is closed. If a taxpayer appeals
prior to termination under (b) above, he or she may not appeal the decision again once the termination takes effect.
-
-
Under CAP, a taxpayer can appeal before or after a Notice of Federal Tax Lien (NFTL) is filed. A taxpayer can appeal denied
requests to withdraw a NFTL filing and denied discharges, subordinations, and non-attachments of lien. Third party claims
to property and alter ego and nominee liens are also appealable under CAP. If a NFTL is filed, a taxpayer may have appeal
rights under CDP. See IRM 5.12.1.3, Collection Appeals. -
Under CAP, a taxpayer can appeal before or after a levy is issued. The taxpayer may also have appeal rights under CDP.
-
Once a seizure action is taken, the taxpayer has 10 business days to appeal under CAP from the date the Notice of Seizure
is provided to the taxpayer, or left at his or her usual abode or place of business. Publication 1660, Collection Appeal Rights,
must be included with the Notice of Seizure. -
If during a taxpayer contact it appears there may be a hardship situation, or he taxpayer asks to be referred to the Taxpayer
Advocate Service(TAS), or the taxpayer meets TAS criteria, and you cant resole the taxpayers issue in the same day, complete
form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance (and Application for a Taxpayer Assistance order) and refer the
taxpayer to TAS. See IRM 13.1.7.Note:
If you are able to resolve and close the TAS issue on the same day as the TAS contact, do not refer the inquiry to TAS. The
definition of same day is within 24 hours. There will be times you can completely resolve the issue within 24 hours. There
will also be times that although you cannot completely resolve the issue within 24 hours, if you have taken steps within 24
hours to resolve the taxpayers issue, these cases also meet the definition of same day. Do not refer these cases to TAS unless
the taxpayer asks to transferred to TAS. Refer to IRM 13.1.7.4, Same Day Resolution by Operations. When referring cases to
TAS, use Form 911 or Form e-911. -
Actions pending in court are excluded from this program.
-
Cases on taxpayers under the control of Criminal Investigation (CI) where CI concurs with collection activity may be entitled
to a CAP. Follow CAP procedures. Appeals will generally delay a CAP hearing during the pendency of criminal investigation
and proceedings, unless the determination is made consistent with Policy Statement P-4-84 that the CAP hearing will not imperil
prosecution. -
Appeals will not consider moral, religious, or constitutional issues.
-
The taxpayer must first discuss the case with the Collection manager.
Note:
The discussion with the group manager on proposed termination, terminated or rejected installment agreements is not mandatory
due to the statutory right to appeal these actions. These appeal requests can be forwarded directly to Appeals without prior
group manager conference. -
If agreement is not reached at the manager conference, advise the taxpayer that he or she can have the issue addressed by
the Office of Appeals by filing a request in writing. Advise the taxpayer to use Form 9423, Collection Appeal Request, and
explain that the completed request needs to be submitted within two business days from the manager conference or collection
action may resume, except for appeals related to installment agreements. Due to the short time frame taxpayers may want to
submit the Form 9423 at the conference or via fax. Collection must send the case to Appeals within two business days of receipt
of the taxpayers Form 9423 request. Local Appeals and field Collection functions have worked out their own procedures for
prompt transmittal of cases to the local Appeals Office. -
While the stay of collection is no longer required two business days after the conference, taxpayers are still entitled to
a CAP appeal if their Form 9423 (or other written request) is received in a reasonable time after the manager conference,
i.e., ten business days. Requests that come in after the time frame may be the result of continuing collection action and
may qualify as a new CAP request if new issues are raised. -
For installment agreement appeals, the taxpayer has 30 days to appeal. During that time and during a timely requested appeal,
levy action is prohibited by statute. -
The information needed for a CAP appeal will be faxed to the Appeals Office. Generally, a copy of the entire case file is
not necessary and is burdensome. Collection and Appeals, on a case by case basis, will determine together what portion of
the file needs to be transmitted to Appeals to adequately consider the appeal. At a minimum, the appeals file should include:-
Copies of the relevant levy, lien, seizure documents.
-
Form 433A or B.
-
Any other relevant documents, such as copies of deeds, mortgages, counsel opinions, taxpayer correspondence.
Collection no longer needs to provide paper copies of the following:
-
ICS history
-
TXMODs
-
Power of attorney information if IDRS has been updated (IDRS cc CFINK)
-
Installment agreement details if IDRS has been updated (IDRS cc IADIS)
-
-
The Appeals organization tries to resolve CAP cases within 5 business days unless there are case complexities that require
more time for quality case consideration. Appeals will attempt to hold a conference with the taxpayer within 2 days of receipt
of the case. However, if the taxpayer requests a conference delay, and it is warranted, then a reasonable delay will be allowed.
Usually, such a delay should not exceed 5 business days. If the taxpayer does not elect a conference within the time limits
given, Appeals will return the case to Collection as a premature referral. -
The short time frames have been set to give taxpayers an almost immediate decision on liens, levies, seizures, and rejection
or termination of installment agreements. It also helps to ensure that taxpayers do not appeal solely to delay collection. -
Levy action during a CAP appeal will be suspended when required by law, for example, when the 30-day time period for rejection
or termination of an installment agreement is running. -
When levy action is being appealed, further levy action is generally suspended while the case is in Appeals unless collection
is at risk. When a lien filing is the subject of the appeal, further lien action is generally withheld unless collection is
at risk. When collection is at risk, Collection personnel should initiate the appropriate actions to protect the governments
interests. Evidence that the taxpayer is dissipating assets is an example where collection is at risk. Also, pyramiding of
additional tax liabilities, including unpaid employment tax deposits and unfiled tax returns while in Appeals, are indicators
that collection may be at risk. The group manager must concur with the planned action during the appeal. Appeals must be contacted
prior to taking levy or lien action to determine if they have any new information from the taxpayer that may affect the decision. -
The filing of a Notice of Federal Tax Lien should be delayed during a CAP appeal about the NFTL filing if there is no imminent
danger to the government losing priority. -
Appeals may contact revenue officers to seek clarification of an illegible or unclear statement in the file or to question
them about procedural matters. -
Appeals will review the case based on law, regulations, policy, and procedures (National and local), considering all the facts
and circumstances. Local procedures will only be considered if they are written and in accordance with the IRM. -
Judgment is likely to be an issue on these types of cases, although they can also involve legal or procedural issues. Appeals
may reverse Collection’s action if evaluation of the taxpayer’s history and current facts and circumstances reveal a more
appropriate solution. -
Appeals will inform both Collection and the taxpayer of its decision as soon as possible within the 5 business day time frame.
Appeals will contact Collection immediately upon making a decision. The decision may be given orally followed by a written
closing letter or through faxing of the appropriate decision documents. -
If Appeals has sustained the collection action, enforcement action may resume upon receipt of the decision, unless otherwise
prohibited. For example, if the 30–day time period after rejection of an installment agreement is still running, levy action
is prohibited during that time. Otherwise, the decision made by Appeals will be implemented. Appeals will give the closing
letter to the taxpayer with a copy to Collection. The closing letter should clearly outline any agreement reached with the
taxpayer. In cases where a Form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, has been filed by the taxpayer, Appeals
will give a copy of the closing letter to the controlling Taxpayer Advocate Office. -
Decisions by Appeals are binding on the taxpayer and Collection. Collection will take the actions directed by the Appeals
decision. However, if the taxpayer defaults on the decision directed by Appeals, Collection is released from the terms of
the agreement. The taxpayer may not appeal the same issue under CAP once Appeals has decided the issue on the same factual
basis, e.g., a subsequent levy on the same asset. -
Should taxpayers withhold pertinent information or frame a false representation, any agreement made on behalf of the Service
will be voidable. Before Collection declares an agreement void under this provision, the Collection group manager will confer
with Appeals. If Appeals sustains Collection’s determination, then enforcement action may resume immediately.
-
To ensure an independent Appeals function within the Internal Revenue Service, communications between Appeals employees and
other Internal Revenue Service employees are generally prohibited to avoid the appearance of compromising the independence
of Appeals officers and other Appeals employees. See Rev. Proc. 2000-43, 2002-2 C.B. 404, Prohibition of Ex Parte Communications
between Appeals Officers and other Internal Revenue Service Employees. -
Ex parte is a term used in legal proceedings to describe a one-sided or partisan point of view received on behalf of or from
one side or party only. In this context ex parte communications are communications which take place between appeals employees
and other Internal Revenue Service employees, including revenue officers, without giving the taxpayers/representatives an
opportunity to participate in the communications. -
Communications between Appeals officers and other Internal Revenue Service employees are generally prohibited ex parte communications
except as provided in Rev. Proc. 2000-43. The prohibition applies to any form of communication, oral or written. -
The administrative file is not an ex parte communication since it sets forth the boundaries of the dispute between the taxpayer
and the Service and forms the basis for Appeals to assume jurisdiction. -
Not all ex parte communications are prohibited. Appeals or the originating function may ask questions or provide information
that involve ministerial, administrative, or procedural matters and do not address the substance of the issues. In CDP cases,
the Appeals employee is required to obtain verification that the requirements of any applicable law or administrative procedure
have been met. Communications seeking to verify compliance with legal and administrative requirements are not prohibited.
Permitted ex parte communications include:-
Questions about whether certain information was requested and whether it was received.
-
Questions to clarify the content of illegible documents or writings.
-
Questions about case controls and transactions on the IRSs management information systems.
-
Providing information regarding receipt of a case.
-
Providing information regarding planned collection actions.
Question: If a revenue officer contacts the settlement officer and advises him the next planned collection action on this
case is levy action of tax years that were previously heard and sustained in Appeals and inquires if the taxpayer has a pending
installment agreement or offer in compromise with respect to the current years under Appeals jurisdiction, is that an ex parte
Communication?Response: In this situation, Collection is providing information regarding planned collection actions and seeking to verify
compliance with legal and administrative requirements. Communications seeking to verify compliance with legal and administrative
requirements in this situation would be considered ministerial, administrative or procedural inquiries. The settlement officer’s
response to the revenue officer is not a prohibited ex parte communication -
-
A general discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of issues and positions should not be held, unless the taxpayer or the
taxpayer’s representative is provided with an opportunity to participate in the discussion. Prohibited ex parte communications
include:-
Discussions about the accuracy of the facts presented by the taxpayer and the relative importance of the facts to the determination.
-
Discussions of the originating functions perception of the demeanor or credibility of the taxpayer or taxpayers representative.
-
-
If discussions between Appeals and Collection are needed regarding the strengths and weaknesses of issues and positions, the
taxpayer/representative should be given an opportunity to participate in those discussions. Appeals will take the necessary
actions to invite the taxpayer/representative to participate. If the taxpayer or representative is unable to participate at
the scheduled time, reasonable accommodations will be made to reschedule. This does not mean that the Service will delay scheduling
a meeting for a protracted period of time to accommodate the taxpayer/representative. Facts and circumstances will govern
what constitutes a reasonable delay. If the taxpayer or representative declines to participate or seeks to delay the meeting/conference
call beyond a reasonable time, Appeals should proceed with the meeting or discussion and document the taxpayer/representative’s
declination or the reason for proceeding in the absence of the taxpayer/representative. This could be accomplished by an entry
in the Appeals’ Case Activity Record and a letter to the taxpayer/representative. -
A dissenting memorandum to Appeals stating disagreement with Appeals determination or decision in a case is not a prohibited
ex parte communication if the dissenting memorandum is sent after Appeals has issued the determination/decision to the taxpayer.
-
If there is concern or disagreement with respect to a decision reached by Appeals in a particular case, local management in
Collection and Appeals should work to address concerns and resolve disagreements. If resolution cannot be reached informally
at the local level, then a formal process is available to elevate concerns and issues to Appeals. -
Prepare a written dissent within 90 days of receiving the Appeals decision/Appeals Case Memorandum (ACM) (extensions of the
90-day time frame may be mutually agreed upon). The written dissent needs to clearly outline the nature of the dissent and
the supporting rationale including:-
The specific facts that should have been considered or given more weight, if Collection believes Appeals did not properly
consider the facts. -
The applicable law, policy, or procedure, e.g., Code Section, Regulation, Revenue Ruling, IRM policy or procedure that should
have been considered or accorded different weight.
Note:
Formal dissents by Collection will generally not be appropriate in an Appeals case where hazards of litigation were considered
in the settlement of the case. Appeals will clearly identify within the Appeals Case Memo (ACM) those cases resolved by considering
the hazards of litigation.Note:
Appeals will reopen its determination only if the “prior disposition involved fraud, malfeasance, concealment or misrepresentation
of material fact, an important mistake in mathematical calculation, or such other circumstances that indicates that failure
to take such action would be a serious administrative omission, and then only with the approval of the Regional Director of
Appeals. ”
Policy Statement P-8-50. If Collection requests that the determination be reopened, Appeals will notify the taxpayer and
give the taxpayer an opportunity to respond to Collection’s facts and arguments in favor of reopening the determination. If
the [area director] with responsibility over the case recommends to the [regional director] that the case be reopened, then
the taxpayer should be notified of the basis for the recommendation and given an opportunity to respond. -
-
Field Collection will forward the written dissent through the SB/SE Territory Manager and Collection Area Director to the
appropriate Appeals Area Director. AIQ (Advisory Insolvency and Quality) will forward the written dissent to the AIQ Area
Manager. The Appeals Area Director will provide a written response to the Collection Area Director or the AIQ Area Manager,
Area Director generally within 90 days of receipt of the written dissent. -
The Appeals decision will generally be implemented while the decision is being elevated for review. If the situation warrants
a delay in implementation, alert Appeals so that Appeals can expedite review of the decision. -
Once Collection receives the response, they may request a post-Appeals conference by contacting the Appeals Area Director
within 15 days. -
Concerns regarding Appeals decisions not satisfactorily addressed through this process need to be brought to Headquarters
attention. They should be forwarded to the Program Director, General Payment and Process Analysis, Collection Policy. These
procedures do not preclude any activities already in place involving Advisory Boards or the exchange of information between
Collection analysts and Appeals analysts.
-
The CDPTS is an IDRS based system that is used to monitor the progress and location of hearing requests.
-
A case is added to the CDPTS upon receipt of a valid CDP or equivalent hearing request. As the case is processed, the CDPTS
is updated to reflect the current status of the case. See IRM 5.1.9.3.3, IRM 5.1.9.3.3.1, IRM 5.1.9.3.3.2 and IRM 5.1.9.3.11. -
Revenue officers submit their requests to add or update the CDPTS to CCP to input using Form 12153-A, Referral Request for
CDP Hearing and Request for CDPTS Input. See IRM 5.1.9.3.3.3. -
There are 11 stages in the CDPTS. Each stage reflects a process that a CDP case or equivalent hearing case can follow. Not
all stages are applicable in all situations.Stage Title Stage Title 1 Receipt of Hearing Request 2 Front End Processing (ACS) 3 Transferred To 4 Received By 7 Appeals Decision Reached 8 Tax Court Petition Date 9 Tax Court Decision Date 12 Resolved Prior to Appeals Consideration 13 Appeals Case Closed – Sent to Collection 14 Closed Case Recd from Appeals 24 Closing Actions Taken -
An additional screen, FRM 77, is available on the CDP tracking system to facilitate input of the TC 520 and TC 521s.
-
Revenue officer groups are authorized to have employees research the status of a CDP case via the IRS intranet at http://CDP.web.irs.gov.
The employee needs to be profiled with IDRS command code CDPTA and the workstation needs to be set up to access CDPWEB. -
Employees authorized for IDRS command code CDPTR with definer ″T″ can use this command code to research the status of a CDP
case that is part of the CDPTS using standard IDRS terminals. This command code provides a summary of the CDP accounts that
are on the CDPTS and the current stage of the case. -
Employees who input data to the CDP Tracking System, input the data to IDRS via the IRS intranet at http://CDP.web.irs.gov.
For data input, the employee needs to be profiled for the following IDRS commands: CDPTA, CDPTE. To delete an entire case
record, command code CDPTD may also be needed. -
To set up a workstation to access CDPWeb, refer to the configuration instructions available in the CDP web site.
-
Follow the prompts to sign on to the CDPWeb. Since it is an IDRS based system, the sign on is similar to IDRS. It uses your
IDRS password to log in to the program.Note:
You must close any other IDRS session before accessing CDPTS.
-
The CDPWeb consists of various web screens that guide the user accessing the system. Data are entered via the keyboard or
by selecting from available options in drop-down menus. -
Data are entered by stage. Once the data has been saved, corrections and deletions can also be made at the stage level. When
a change is made, a historical comment (HC) is maintained that keeps a record of the original entry. In addition, short comments
can be added using the Add Comment feature to explain any corrections or deletions. -
To query case information using the CDP Web, go to the request TIN screen and submit the taxpayers TIN. This will bring up
a listing of cases present on the tracking system. The listing identifies the latest stage for each tax period present on
the system. To get more detailed information on a particular tax period, select a view of the detail screen. The detail screen
lists all the stages for a specific tax period. The edit view will bring up the stage screen for the stage requested. -
To sign off the CDP tracking system, click on the IDRS sign-off tab and follow the prompts.
-
Cases are added to the CDPTS at Stage 1, Hearing Request Received.
-
Revenue officers submit their request to CCP to update the CDPTS upon receipt of a valid hearing request. To request input
to the CDPTS, a job aid for revenue officers is available on ICS. Cases should be added to the CDPTS as soon as practical
but no later than 10 business days from receipt. -
The taxpayer account should be present on IDRS when adding a case to the CDPTS.
-
Each tax module that is part of the hearing request needs to be added to the CDPTS.
-
Effective March 17, 2008, when the module is added to the CDPTS, a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code 275 if
it is a CDP lien request, action codes 275 and 630 if it includes a CDP levy request, action code 278 if it is an equivalent
hearing request. These action codes identify when hearing request is received and they are also used to exclude module(s)
from selection by automated levy programs when appropriate.
-
A Stage 1 is required for each taxpayer TIN, MFT, and tax period that is part of the hearing request. In addition, the following
information is needed at Stage 1. -
Taxpayer Type – This identifies the type of taxpayer requesting the hearing. Select from the following options:
-
P – Primary – For SSN taxpayers, the taxpayer type is generally primary, unless the MFT is 30 and it involves a jointly filed
return. If it is a jointly filed return and only the primary SSN taxpayer is requesting the hearing, enter Primary for the
taxpayer type. -
S – Secondary – If it is a jointly filed return and only the secondary SSN taxpayer is requesting the hearing.
-
B – Both – If it is a jointly filed return and the primary and secondary taxpayers jointly request a CDP hearing.
-
I – In-business – BMF taxpayers who are in-business or business status is unknown.
-
O – Out of business – BMF taxpayers who are out-of-business.
-
T – Partner only – Select Partner only when an individual partner is requesting a hearing in response to a CDP notice issued
to the individual partner and the request is as an individual partner in the partnership. Do not use when the partnership
is requesting a hearing in response to a CDP notice issued to the partnership, rather indicate whether the partnership is
in-business or out-of-business.
-
-
Secondary TIN – Enter the secondary SSN on a jointly filed return when the taxpayer type is secondary or both. Also, when
the taxpayer type is partner only, input the TIN of the individual partner. -
Stage Date – Enter the received date of the hearing request.
-
Hearing Type – Enter the type of hearing requested from the following options:
-
DPLN – CDP Lien Request
-
DPLV – CDP Levy Request
-
DPBO – CDP Lien and Levy Request
-
EHLN – Equivalent Lien Request
-
EHLV – Equivalent Levy Request
-
EHBO – Equivalent Lien and Levy Request
-
-
Type of Levy Notice – This refers to the type of levy notice that was issued to the taxpayer. Applies to levy requests. For
lien requests, select not applicable. The options are as follows:-
N – Not applicable (DPLN, EHLN only)
-
C – ACS Levy Notice (LT-11)
-
I – Field Levy Notice (L-1058)
-
S – State Income Tax Levy Program (CP 92, CP 242)
-
F – Federal Payment Levy Program (CP 90, CP 297)
-
A – Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend Levy Program (CP 77)
-
D – Disqualified Employment Tax Levy
-
O – Other
-
-
Office Function – Identify the office function that received the hearing request, either ACS or Field Collection.
-
Location Code – Identifies the office location where the hearing request was received. For Field Collection, the location
code consists of the employee assignment number. For ACS, the location code identifies the ACS Support Office processing the
CDP Request (Brookhaven – 01; Cincinnati – 02; Fresno – 10; Kansas City – 09; Memphis – 03; Philadelphia 05).
-
Taxpayers are encouraged to work with the collecting office even after requesting a CDP hearing. If the issue can be resolved
and the taxpayer agrees, the request does not need to go forward to Appeals. In the case of a CDP hearing request, the taxpayers
decision to withdraw the CDP hearing request must be in writing. -
When the case is resolved, the collecting function handling the request updates the CDPTS to Stage 12, Case Resolved Prior
to Appeals Consideration. Revenue officers submit their request to CCP to update the CDPTS. Updates to CDPTS are made as soon
as practical but no later than 10 business days after the resolution of the hearing request. -
Stage 12 is not applicable if the hearing has been held, i.e., Stage 7 is present.
-
Stage 12 is a final stage. It indicates that the case has been resolved. No further stages are applicable.
-
Effective January 24, 2003, when the module is updated on the CDPTS to Stage 12, Resolved Prior to Appeals Consideration,
a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code 276 if it is a CDP request or action 279 if it is an equivalent hearing.
These action codes identify when the hearing request is resolved prior to Appeals consideration.
-
To update the CDPTS, request the taxpayers TIN to bring up the taxpayers account. Then, go to the Add Stages menu and select
Stage 12. Another option is after bringing up the taxpayers TIN, select the module to be updated and view the detail screen
of an earlier stage. By viewing the detail screen, information regarding the TIN, taxpayer type, MFT and tax period, and CDP
request number will be captured for the next stage. Then go to the Add Stages menu and select Stage 12. -
The stage date for Stage 12 is the date the issue was resolved or the date the withdrawal was received, if applicable.
-
For the reason code, identify how the case was resolved. Select from the following options.
-
CR – CDP Notice Rescinded
-
IV – Premature/Invalid Request
-
CO – Hearing Request Withdrawn
-
OT – Other
-
-
The RO should indicate the reason for the withdrawal. Available options are as follows:
-
FP – Full pay
-
IA – Installment Agreement Accepted
-
NC – Currently Not Collectible
-
OC – Offer in Compromise Accepted
-
OT – Other
-
-
Office function that resolved the case, either Field Collection or ACS.
-
If the hearing issue cannot be resolved or if it is resolved but the taxpayer does not withdraw the hearing request, the collecting
office refers the case to Appeals. When the case is transferred from the collecting office to Appeals, the CDPTS must be updated
to Stage 3, Transferred To, to show the transfer. Revenue officers submit their request to update the CDPTS to CCP for input.
Cases should be updated to Stage 3 when the case is transferred to Appeals. Appeals will return cases that have not been updated
on the tracking system. -
When the case is received in Appeals, Appeals updates the CDPTS to Stage 4, Received By.
-
Stage 3 and Stage 4 can be used when transferring cases between offices.
-
Stage 4 must always follow Stage 3.
-
To update the CDPTS, request the taxpayers TIN to bring up the taxpayers account. Then, go to the Add Stages menu and select
the appropriate stage. Another option is, after bringing up the taxpayers TIN, select the module to be updated and view the
detail screen of an earlier stage. By viewing the detail screen, information regarding the TIN, taxpayer type, MFT and tax
period, and CDP request number will be captured for the next stage. Then go to the Add Stages menu and select the appropriate
stage. -
The stage date for Stage 3 is the date the case is transferred. The stage date for Stage 4 is the date the case is received.
-
When transferring a case to Appeals, identify in Stage 3 the type of case that is being transferred. Select from the following
options:-
A – Doubt as to liability issues
-
B – Collection alternative – OIC is primary issue
-
C – Collection alternative – IA is primary issued
-
D – In-business Trust Fund Taxpayer – Not Current with FTDs
-
H – Constitutional/Frivolous Argument
-
I – Issue resolved but taxpayer did not withdraw hearing request
-
J – Collection alternative – Other is primary issue, i.e., hardship
-
K – Contact made with taxpayer but unable to resolve issue.
Note:
The Constitutional/Frivolous Argument category may be used in a tracking system maintained by a Collection function to reflect
a category of taxpayers whose claims are so identified to enable the function to take efficient administrative action; however,
the designation may not result in a reduced opportunity to appear before Appeals. Also, the designation may not be reflected
in entries on master file where it would result in stigmatizing a taxpayer along the line of an illegal tax protestor designation.
See section 3707 of the RRA of 1998.
-
-
For Stage 3, the Transferred to Office identifies the office function where the case is being transferred, e.g., Appeals.
This will usually be the same as the Received by Office in Stage 4. -
For Stage 3, the Transferred to Location code identifies the office location where the case is being transferred. For Appeals,
the office location code identifies the Appeals area office and key office. This will usually be the same as the Received
by Location Code in Stage 4.
-
When the case is closed in Appeals, Appeals will update the CDPTS to Stage 13, Appeals Case Closed, Sent to Collection.
-
Collection acknowledges receipt of the closed case by updating the CDPTS to Stage 14, Closed Case Recd from Appeals. Cases
should be updated to Stage 14 as soon as practical but no later than 10 business days after receipt. -
When the case is returned from Appeals, if a question arises regarding the planned resolution, contact Appeals for clarification.
If the case needs to be returned to Appeals, Appeals will need to delete their Stage 13. Once the Stage 13 is deleted, transfer
the case back to Appeals in Stage 3. If Stage 14 has been entered, delete Stage 14, then have Appeals delete Stage 13.
-
To update the CDPTS, request the taxpayers TIN to bring up the taxpayers account. Then, go to the Add Stages menu and select
the appropriate stage. Another option is, after bringing up the taxpayers TIN, select the module to be updated and view the
detail screen of an earlier stage. By viewing the detail screen, information regarding the TIN, taxpayer type, MFT and tax
period, and CDP request number will be captured for the next stage. Then, go to the Add Stages menu and select the appropriate
stage. -
The stage date for Stage 13 is the date the case is sent to Collection.
-
The stage date for Stage 14 is the date the case is received in Collection.
-
When returning the case to Collection, Appeals identifies in Stage 13 the type of resolution reached in Appeals. Appeals selects
from the following options.-
04 — Agreed Non-Docketed/waiver F12257
-
05 — Defaulted Determination Letter
-
08 — Docketed – Appeals Secured Agreement
-
10 — Area Counsel/DOJ Secured Agreement
-
11 — Dismissed – lack of jurisdiction
-
12 — Dismissed – lack of prosecution
-
14 — EH – Collection Fully Sustained
-
15 — EH – Collection Not Sustained or partially sustained
-
16 — CDP Withdrawn – EH or Form 12256
-
17– Tried
-
20 — Premature referral/invalid request
-
-
Stage 13 also includes the date the decision is final.
-
For Stage 13, the Returned to Office identifies the office function where the case is being transferred, i.e., Field Collection.
This will usually be the same as the Office Function in Stage 14. -
For Stage 13, the Returned to Location code identifies the office location where the case is being transferred. This will
usually be the same as the Location Code in Stage 14. -
Effective January 24, 2003, when Appeals updates the CDPTS to Stage 13, a TC 971 is systemically generated with action code
277 if it is a CDP request or action code 280 if it is an equivalent hearing. These action codes identify when the hearing
request is closed in Appeals.
-
Once the case is in Appeals, Appeals will update the CDPTS regarding the case status.
-
Stage updates in Appeals, include stages 4, 7, 8, 9, and 13.
-
This stage reflects the date that Appeals issued the Notice of Determination (for CDP hearings) or the decision letter (for
equivalent hearings), or that a waiver of the Notice of Determination is received. -
Appeals uses Reason Code 1 to identify the summary results of the hearing. They select from the following:
-
CS — Collection Sustained
-
CA — Collection Alternative Reached
-
PR — Premature/Invalid Referral
-
WD — Withdrawal
-
-
In Reason Code 2, Appeals identifies the major issues discussed/addressed in the hearing that indicate the basis for their
decision.-
IA — Installment Agreement Accepted
-
ID — Installment Agreement Denied
-
FP — Full Pay
-
NC — Currently Not Collectible
-
AB — Abatement/Adjustment (Non-Tax) granted
-
AD — Abatement/Adjustment (Tax) granted
-
AC — Abatement/Adjustment (Non-Tax) denied
-
AT — Abatement/Adjustment (Tax) denied
-
UL — Unable to Raise Liability
-
RC — Reasonable Cause Not Established
-
LD — Lien Discharged
-
LS — Lien Subordinated
-
LR — Lien Release
-
LN — Lien Withdrawn
-
CF — Collection Facilitated
-
PF — Premature Filing
-
OC — Offer in Compromise Accepted
-
OD — Offer in Compromise Denied
-
IS — Innocent Spouse Relief Granted (full or partial)
-
IR — Innocent Spouse Relief Denied (full or partial)
-
NR — No Response
-
TD — Taxpayer Delay
-
CO — Lack of Compliance with Filing and/or Paying
-
FV — Frivolous/Constitutional Argument Presented
-
IV — Invalid Request/Premature Request
-
CE — CSED Expired
-
OT — Other
-
AI — Taxpayer Advocate Involvement
-
-
Stage 8 is used when a taxpayer files a petition in Tax Court. Stage 9 is used when the Tax Court Decision is entered.
Note:
The Pension Protection Act of 2006 places all CDP judicial reviews regardless of liability, in Tax Court. This is effective
for notices of determination issued on or after October 17, 2006. -
Stage 9 indicates the outcome of the court decision. Options include:
-
10 –Area Counsel/DOJ Secured Agreement
-
11 — Dismissed – Lack of Jurisdiction
-
12 — Dismissed – Lack of Prosecution
-
17 — Tried Case
-
19 — Remanded to Appeals
-
-
Stage 9 also indicates whether there was any further appeal. The options are as follows:
-
N — No further appeal
-
C — Circuit court appeal
-
S — Supreme Court appeal
-
-
This stage is updated by ACS and can be used by Appeals when actions regarding the outcome of the CDP hearing have been taken.
-
A reason code identified the primary concluding action taken.
-
IA – Installment Agreement Accepted
-
FP – Full Pay
-
AB – Abatement/Adjustment (Non-Tax) granted
-
AD – Abatement/Adjustment (Tax) granted
-
NC – Currently Not Collectible
-
LN – Lien Withdrawn
-
OC – Offer in Compromise Accepted
-
IS – Innocent Spouse Relief Granted (full or partial)
-
OT – Other
-