Key Points:

  • The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) sent a letter to Congress on Thursday urging protection of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) information, expressing concern that Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) might be granted access to sensitive taxpayer data.
  • The letter cites the Taxpayer Bill of Rights and the Taxpayer First Act, emphasizing the importance of protecting taxpayer data and calling on lawmakers to carefully evaluate any proposal that expands access to IRS records.
  • NATP recommends that any changes to IRS data access should include legal safeguards to prevent unauthorized use, ensuring access is limited to employees directly involved in tax administration while complying with the confidentiality requirements of the Internal Revenue Code.

In-Depth Analysis:

The letter comes as DOGE, under the Trump administration, faces opposition from some groups for attempting to access databases of multiple federal agencies in its efforts to combat fraud and cut costs. Alan Butler of the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) called the move a "significant shift" in how the government handles sensitive data, as reported by The Hill.

NATP represents approximately 23,000 tax professionals who primarily serve individuals and small businesses. The association decided to take this stance after hearing concerns from members and their clients about data security. Tom O'Saben, NATP's director of tax content and government relations, said in a Friday interview: "We heard businesses asking: 'What information are they collecting? Who is operating it?'" He added: "Congress can oversee the process DOGE uses to ensure they don't have unrestricted access to information."

However, the tax organization, headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, also acknowledges that its stance is "controversial." O'Saben said some members oppose the move, believing the association is opposing DOGE's process. In reality, NATP has not taken a political position. O'Saben emphasized: "In the letter to Congress, we did not express support or opposition to DOGE's establishment. Protecting individuals' privacy and their sensitive information is a responsibility... We just want to ensure there are appropriate guardrails."

O'Saben revealed that NATP has not yet received a response from lawmakers to the letter. The White House, Treasury Department, IRS, and House Speaker Johnson's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.