EP Examination Process Guide - Section 6 - Resolution of Issues and Closing the Examination - Technical Assistance and Technical Advice |
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What are Technical Assistance and Technical Advice?
Technical Assistance is an informal process where a written request is made to Technical Review or Area Counsel for technical assistance. Area Counsel will provide an interpretation of law. The Review Staff can advise and assist agents and managers on technical and procedural issues.
Technical Advice is a formal process where written guidance is provided in the form of a memorandum furnished by the office of the manager, EP Technical in the Office of the Commissioner, Tax Exempt and Government Entities Division (Headquarters) upon the request of an EP Examinations area manager. In this process the plan sponsor or authorized representative and the EP agent submit a memorandum requesting guidance based upon the Issues/Facts, Applicable Law, Government's Position and the Taxpayer's Position. Note: Although this may seem a simple resolution, these types of requests can take several years to resolve. Revenue Procedure 2007-5 sets forth the procedures for requesting Technical Advice.
Can the parties agree to disagree, so that the process can be streamlined?
No, generally, EP agents are required to explore all resolution processes before disqualification or submitting the case for Technical Advice.
Are there other issue resolution programs available to Plan Sponsors or Authorized Representatives?
The answer to this question can be broken down into two parts: Qualification Issues vs. Non-Qualification Issues.
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Page Last Reviewed or Updated: October 14, 2008