The IRS indicates it will give taxpayers and their representative written notice that the accounts are being transferred to the private collection agencies. The agencies are to send a second, separate letter to the taxpayer and their representative confirming this transfer.

Private collection agencies can identify themselves as contractors of the IRS collecting taxes. But, employees of these collection agencies must follow provisions of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, including being courteous and respect taxpayer rights.

The IRS warns that the private collection agencies will not ask for payment on a prepaid debit, iTunes or gift card (as has been happening with the scams).  Instead, taxpayers will be informed about electronic payment options for taxpayers on IRS.gov/Pay Your Tax Bill. Payment by check should be payable to the U.S. Treasury and sent directly to IRS, not the private collection agency.

Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts

The IRS will continue to keep taxpayers informed about scams and provide tips for protecting themselves. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov for information including the “Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts” page.

Private Collection Agencies Selected:

The IRS will assign cases to these private collection agencies:

• CBE
  P.O. Box 2217
  Waterloo, IA 50704
  1-800-910-5837
• ConServe
  P.O. Box 307
  Fairport, NY 14450-0307
  1-844-853-4875
• Performant
  P.O. Box 9045
  Pleasanton CA 94566-9045
  1-844-807-9367
• Pioneer
  PO Box 500
  Horseheads, NY 14845
  1-800-448-3531

NOTE: If the taxpayer does not want to work with the assigned private collection agency to settle their overdue tax account, they must submit a request in writing to the private collection agency.