IRS getting funds to again boost number of audits
CURT ANDERSON The Associated Press

April 12, 2001

WASHINGTON - An infusion of money and improved technology will begin to reverse the decline in Internal Revenue Service audits, which agency chief Charles Rossotti says are essential to ensure compliance. But he has a warning for those tempted to cheat. "This is really not a good path for the average taxpayer," Rossotti said yesterday. "If you want to make bets, your odds would be better to go to a casino." Less than a week before Monday's tax filing deadline, Rossotti said that, like millions of other taxpayers, he is asking for the automatic four-month extension to finish his return and that his taxes are done by an accountant. Unlike most people, Rossotti is audited every year. Last year, the percentage of audited returns fell to below one-half of 1 percent, which Rossotti blamed on tight budgets over the past five years and lack of money to replace antiquated Internal Revenue Service computers. President Bush is asking Congress for a $580 million increase for the IRS for fiscal 2002, mainly for technology and staffing. Rossotti said audits represent only one way the IRS checks returns for cheaters. Computers match taxpayer documents with those provided by banks, employers and other sources for accuracy. Even neighbors can be a source for the agency. "You'd be surprised how many people tell us about other people who don't fill out accurate returns," he said. And I liked GW... Dennis

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2001

Answers

ok, ok, can't teach a doomer new tricks, I s'pose.

"An infusion of money and improved technology..."

"...which Rossotti blamed on tight budgets over the past five years and lack of money to replace antiquated Internal Revenue Service computers."

IOW, it took them this long to work out the y2k kinks and now (15 months later) they're back in business?

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2001

I just mailed ours this morning. By the way, for those of you who owe money, do not--repeat DO NOT--send a personal check or anything from your bank, like a cashier's check. The name of your bank and your account number are recorded and, if there's any kind of a dispute, the IRS can go in and TAKE the money without prior notice to you. I speak from agonizing personal experience. We owed 55 bucks on this return and I paid it in the form of a Postal Service money order.

-- Anonymous, April 13, 2001

git, dear, they don't need your check to get yuour account number. Your bank already gave it to them. And still does.

And they still can go in and take it.

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2001

Oh. Bugger. Well, let's not make it easy for them.

-- Anonymous, April 14, 2001