IRS ends unannounced visits to taxpayers

(CNN) – On Monday, the IRS announced it is ending most unannounced visits to taxpayers by its revenue officers.

The agency said the purpose is to cut down on public confusion and enhance safety measures for taxpayers and employees.

With very few exceptions, unannounced visits will now be replaced by mailed letters to schedule meetings.

It’s part of a broader plan to transform IRS operations.

The National Treasury Employees Union supports the policy change.

The union’s president said employees’ jobs have become more dangerous in recent years due to false, inflammatory rhetoric about the agency and its workforce.

IRS commissioner Danny Werfel also noted increased security concerns of late.

The growth in scam artists bombarding taxpayers has increased confusion among taxpayers and local law enforcement about home visits.