The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Policy Statement 1-47, Reasonable Accommodations for People with Disabilities (see IRM 1.2.1.2.12), requires the IRS to take necessary actions to ensure taxpayers with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate effectively in its programs, activities and services. If a taxpayer is unable to read IRS forms, publications and correspondence issued in standard print, they may request an accessible copy of that product in an alternative format.

The IRS has established an Accessibility Helpline at 833-690-0598, where taxpayers, who use assistive technology such as screen reading software, refreshable Braille displays and screen magnifying software may request assistance in getting certain IRS forms and products in an alternative media format (Section 508 compliant PDF, HTML, eBraille, text and large print).

Getting accessible forms and products

The IRS already provides a number of accessible tax forms, instructions and publications on the Accessible Forms and Publications page, including some Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) publications, so look there first. To request paper copies of tax forms, instructions or publications in Braille or large print, you can also call the tax form telephone number at 800-829-3676. However, if you are having trouble requesting these products or have questions about current and future accessibility services or other alternative media formats available to taxpayers with disabilities, please call the Accessibility Helpline at 833-690-0598.

Getting accessible IRS notice or letters

If you receive a notice or letter in print format and prefer it in Braille or large print, choose one of the three options below to request your preferred alternative media format:

• Call the tax assistance number at 800-829-1040.
• Fax your notice and a cover sheet to: Alternative Media Center, at 855-473-2006. On the cover sheet, write “Alternative Media Format” at the top and include your name, address, daytime phone number and your preferred format.
• Mail your notice with a note stating your preferred format (Braille or large print) to: Internal Revenue Service, Alternative Media Center, 400 N. 8th St. Room G39, Richmond, VA 23219.

Once the IRS receives your request it will take up to 15 business days to convert the notice or letter and mail it back to you.

Note: The IRS is developing a process to make it easier for visually impaired taxpayers to request post-filing tax notices — such as notices about additional taxes or penalties owed — in Braille, large print, audio or electronic formats. The new process is expected to be in place by January 31, 2022.

If you have any questions regarding accounting, domestic taxation, essential business accounting, international taxation, IRS representation, U.S. tax implications of Real Estate transactions or financial statements, please give us a call at 305-274-5811.

Source: TAS