Additionally, the program, which tackles industry-wide tax issues submitted by taxpayers, associations and other business groups representing large- and mid-sized companies, will be expanded to accept tax issues raised by small businesses and the self-employed.

"This program moves the IRS and business taxpayers away from the case-by-case disputes towards solutions that will assist broad groups of business in meeting their tax obligations,'' said IRS Commissioner Charles O. Rossotti.

The objective of the IIR program is to issue guidance for frequently disputed or burdensome issues. During an IIR pilot program this past year, the Large and Mid-Size Business Division solicited and selected issues from business taxpayers. Based on these submissions, the IRS provided tax guidance on such matters as the use of demonstration vehicles by auto dealership employees, the bad debt conformity election for banks and the depreciation of certain golf course land improvements.

Submissions must be received by April 30, 2002 to be considered for the IIR program this year. Issues that are selected for the program will be assigned to IRS and Treasury teams that will meet with business groups representing taxpayers affected by the issues. 

Notice 2002-20 provides additional information on the IIR program, including how to submit issues for IIR consideration, and is available on the IRS Web site.

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