The panel provides a forum for citizens from each state to make suggestions regarding IRS decision making.
 
"As the IRS continues to examine taxpayers' needs in the area of service, the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel has emerged as a vital source for gathering and providing information from the perspective of taxpayers," said Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate, in a statement.

To qualify as a TAP member, applicants must be U.S. citizens and be able to commit 300 to 500 hours during the year to the panel. In addition, they must be current with their tax obligations and pass a criminal background check.

The application is available at www.improveirs.org. Interested parties may apply on-line or download the form and mail it to: Milwaukee TAP Office, Stop 1006MIL, 310 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203-2221. Those without access to a computer may call 1-888-912-1227 for an application form.

Applications must be received by the TAP Office by April 28, 2006.