Good morning. Let me begin by thanking Ms. Olson, the National Taxpayer Advocate, for being here today.
I also want to congratulate you on your upcoming retirement. Thank you for your 18 years of outstanding service to taxpayers and this Congress as our advocate.
Ms. Olson has worked long and hard on the behalf of American taxpayers.
The National Taxpayer Advocate provides a voice within the agency for millions of Americans.
Across the country, Ms. Olson’s colleagues help our constituents and assist our caseworkers in addressing complex tax matters.
In addition, this office acts as the eyes and ears for Congress with respect to problems facing taxpayers.
Simply said, we cannot do our job without your great and good work.
Ms. Olson, thank you, again, for your service. You will be missed.
Today, we will learn what taxpayers face as they attempt to file their tax returns.
This is a trying and difficult time. Many news stories report that taxpayers are surprised and confused during this first filing season under the new Republican tax law.
We also will examine how the longest government shutdown in United States history harmed taxpayer services and the agency.
Finally, we will review the Taxpayer Advocate’s most recent report to Congress.
We have a shared mission, obligation, and mandate to make sure that all taxpayers - especially those who are low-income, disabled, and senior citizens - receive fair, quality, and in-person service.
I look forward to this update and discussion, and once again, I thank the witness for her years of service and for joining us today.
