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Now that the Service has implemented the Code provisions calling for most types of tax-exempt organizations to make certain information available to the public, the organizations face compliance burdens and the risk that penalties may be imposed on responsible persons if they fail to comply. The rules are by and large reasonable and workable, however, and give such organizations an unprecedented opportunity to present themselves in a favorable light.

The IRS issued final regulations under Sec. 7216 that govern the circumstances in which tax return preparers can disclose or use certain limited tax return information (T.D. 9608). The regulations [...]

This article concerns the IRS's policy of treating corporate prefiling agreements as IRC section 7121 closing agreements, resulting in their confidentiality.

Issues related to a bill designed to provide confidentiality to IRS prefiling agreements are examined, focusing on the need to oppose the bill. Topics include the tension between the right for taxpayer privacy and the public's right to know the tax law.

On April 9, 1999, the IRS released final Regs. Sec. 301.6104(d)-3-5, on public disclosure and inspection of exemption applications and annual information returns filed by tax-exempt organizations (described in Sec. [...]

The IRS has issued final regulations on disclosure requirements for all exempt organizations other than private foundations. New Regs. Sec. 301.6104(d)(1)-(5) applies to disclosure requests made on or after June [...]

Tax-exempt organizations negatively commented on the Joint Committee on Taxation's study concerning disclosure of information returns filed by those organizations. Disclosure assertedly would place nonprofits at a disadvantage in cases where they compete with for-profit organizations.

Issues related to Rep Amo Houghton's efforts to pass legislation that would make IRS prefiling agreements confidential are examined. Topics include Houghton's efforts to enlist the bipartisan support of Rep Sander M. Levin, exemptions from disclosure under I.R.C. section 6103(b), amendments to I.R.C. section 7121(a), and the Treasury Department's support of confidentiality for negotiated agreements with taxpayers.