Nina E. Olson, the founder of the Richmond, Va.-based Community Tax Law project, succeeds W. Val Oveson, according to the IRS. Oveson, who took the post in Sept. 1998, has returned to Utah, where he has joined Big Five firm PricewaterhouseCoopers as a managing director in the firm's State Tax Consulting Practice in Salt Lake City.

In her new role, Olson will oversee a nationwide system of local taxpayer advocates ensuring that tax problems, which have not been resolved through normal channels, are handled promptly, the IRS stated.

"Nina is a distinguished member of the tax community and has established a strong record as an advocate for taxpayer rights," said IRS commissioner Charles O. Rossotti. "I am confident she will give a powerful voice to taxpayers who have unresolved matters with the IRS."

In 1996, the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate replaced the Ombudsman Office, and in 1998, Congress renamed the Advocate the National Taxpayer Advocate and granted the office authority to assist taxpayers.

The Treasury Secretary, following consultations with the IRS commissioner and the IRS Oversight Board, appoints the National Taxpayer Advocate. The National Taxpayer Advocate -- an independent voice inside the IRS -- reports directly to the IRS commissioner, the IRS said.

-- SmartPros News Staff

Send comments to information@smartpros.com.

Back to NewsLine