Tax Man Will Ease Up on Hostages
The Internal Revenue Service announced Thursday it will suspend audits and collection actions against U.S. hostages being held in Iraq and Kuwait.
But the agency said it cannot act until it hears from the hostages’ family members.
“Family members of detained citizens should call a special toll-free number, 1-800-829-4351, as soon as possible so that IRS international taxpayer-service representatives can take steps to suspend actions already scheduled or under way and prevent actions from being scheduled,” the agency said.
IRS spokesman Wilson Fadely said callers should be prepared to provide the Social Security number of any hostage, along with any information available on any pending tax action, such as an audit or collection effort.
The IRS also said that families of military personnel assigned to Operation Desert Shield, including activated reservists, should contact IRS promptly in connection with any outstanding tax matter. This would include correspondence regarding an audit or past-due taxes.
Families of military personnel should call the regular tax-assistance number, 1-800-424-1040, for information.
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