Linebarger Issues Statement on IRS Collection Contract

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP issued a statement last week concerning the IRS decision to not continue the firm’s collection contract in an extension of the implementation phase of its private debt collection initiative. 

In mid-February, the IRS announced that it is extending the contracts of CBE Group and Pioneer Credit through March 2008.  Linebarger will not collection on behalf of the IRS in the extension.

Last week, Linbarger partner Michael Vallandingham issued the following statement: "We have discussed the extension of our IRS contract, both within our law firm and with the IRS.  By mutual agreement, we will not be performing on this contract under the extended limited implementation phase, which runs through March 8, 2008.  When and if the IRS moves forward with the full implementation phase of this public-private partnership, we will consider pursuing another contract at that time. Linebarger Goggan is proud to have been selected to be a part of this effort to help the federal government close the tax gap and enhance the overall fairness of our tax system."

The IRS has not given any updates to when it will expand the collection contract awards to 10 firms, per its original plan.