Tax Information Resources Key Terms

Gather the tax information you need to file correctly
By Elise Matz, Writer Speaking Term Productions People who need help filing their federal taxes should turn first to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). However, there is a slew of other organizations that offer state and local tax information as well, including professional associations for accountants, tax lawyers and tax administrators. You can save time and make sure your business pays its tax bills in full by learning which groups are most likely to direct you to the information you need.

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is the leading professional group for accountants in the United States. It sets accounting standards and represents the profession in Congress and to state legislatures. It also publishes the prestigious Journal of Accountancy.
Try:  The AICPA's website has a plethora of tax information, as well as links to federal, state and local resources.

International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO)

Assessors are responsible for evaluating a property's worth, which is then used to determine what property taxes are due. The International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) provides training and research to its members and has information to help property owners understand the assessment process.
Try:  Visit the IAAO's website for more information.

Pew Center on the States

The Pew Center on the States is devoted to journalistic research of state governments. It covers all angles, including state budgetary issues and changes in state government services. It also publishes all kinds of tax news.
Try:  Visit Stateline, a website hosted by the Pew Center on the States, for the most recent information on state policies, including changes in state tax codes.

Federation of Tax Administrators (FTA)

The Federation of Tax Administrators (FTA) was formed in 1937 to improve the quality of state tax administration services. It provides training and professional resources to members, represents them in Congress and publishes information on changes in state tax policies.
Try:  Visit the FTA website to get a state-by-state comparison of tax burdens, state tax tables and income tax provisions.

National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP)

The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is an organization for accountants, CPAs, tax administrators and tax lawyers. It has a members-only program that matches volunteers with tax professionals who have questions about taxes in a particular state in addition to providing members with continuing professional education.
Try:  The NATP website has relevant links and news in addition to current tax forms and summaries of recent tax bills.

Multistate Tax Commission (MTC)

The Multistate Tax Commission (MTC) is a government organization set up to administer taxes fairly for companies in multiple states. Its job is to make sure the process is as efficient as possible, and to help companies comply. The MTC is also charged with avoiding duplicate taxes.
Try:  Visit the MTC website for a list of resources.