Is Form 2848 needed on IRS submissions now?

[Lynn Campbell]

Form 5307 #2 asks for the person to contact if more information is needed. Instructions to the form indicate that the person listed will get copies of all correspondence. Does this mean that if question 2 on Form 5307 is completed, there is no reason to do the 2848 anymore? Thanks for all help!

[mbozek]

Form 2848 is required whenever a taxapyer appoints an authorized representative to represent the taxpayer on a particular matter before the IRS. A form 2848 is not required when a taxpayer files a determinaton request on its own behalf. Box #2 indicates that a taxpayer who files a form 2848 does not complete box 2.

[E as in ERISA]

I think that answering Q. 2 will allow you one-way correspondence -- the IRS can send the other person copies.

I think that using the Form 2848 will get you two-way correspondence -- the IRS can send that person copies AND that person can speak to the IRS on the taxpayer's behalf. The IRS frequently won't talk to you if you don't have a POA.

[mbozek]

A form 5307 that is filed by an employee of a plan sponsor will be able to receive IRS correspondence by checking box 2 without having to file a 2848 form.