So, previously I reported on how I had requested postage and handling after the IRS told me they owed me less than $1 and had to send them a letter requesting it to actually be cut a check. That original letter was sent out in June. In September I received an update indicating they were still figuring out how to respond. Today I received two letters from the IRS. One dated November, 9th and one November 10th, 2010. Below are the contents in part:
November 9th, 2010:
Dear Taxpayer:
We previously sent you a letter concerning your inquiry received July 09, 2010. Although we try to respond quickly, extensive research is often required. At this time we are unable to provide a complete response because:
Due to heavy workload, we have not yet completed our research to resolve your inquiry.
While waiting to hear from us, you can still make payments to reduce your tax liability and interest charges. …
Please allow an additional 45 days for us to obtain this information we need and to let you know what action we are taking.
November 10th, 2010:
Dear Taxpayer:
Thank you for your correspondence received July 09, 2010.
We have completed the transaction request package for your refund request and sent it forward for management approval. When that is done it will be sent to our Accounting center for input and generation of the refund check. We cannot reimburse you for the postage claim you submitted. Persons writing the IRS are responsible for their own postage expenses.
…
We apologize for any inconvenience, and thank your for your cooperation.
Sincerely yours,
Frank Jugo
Area Director, FA, Area 4
So… they tell me they are willing to return some of my money but because it’s less than $1 I have to ask for it explicitly otherwise they keep it. Instead of just cutting me the check in the first place.
I ask for postage and handling because combined they cost more than my refund and not only does it take 5ish months and a couple letters telling me they are still researching the request… but they then deny the request to cover the postage AND have to get the $0.60ish refund approved by management!
I’d love to know how much they spent on this above salary since the pencil pushers would be paid regardless of whether they got my letter or not. Four or five letters (each two pages), two envelops, plus the paperwork to make this all happen internally, plus the cutting of the check and it’s envelop. It’s got to be over 10x the refund.
I’ll post an update when the check or any other letters arrive.
