IRS Form 13768 – IRS Forms, Instructions, Pubs 2026 – In the ever-evolving world of tax administration, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) relies on expert input to enhance electronic filing systems, cybersecurity measures, and taxpayer services. If you’re a professional in tax preparation, software development, or related fields, you might be eligible to contribute through the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee (ETAAC). IRS Form 13768 serves as the official membership application for this influential group. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the form, its purpose, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply for the 2026 term. With applications open until February 28, 2026, now is the time to prepare your submission.
What is the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee (ETAAC)?
The ETAAC is a federal advisory committee established by Congress under the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998. Its primary role is to offer public input on the IRS’s strategies for electronic tax administration, including e-filing, digital security, and system improvements. The committee helps ensure that IRS initiatives align with taxpayer needs and industry advancements.
ETAAC members serve three-year terms and provide recommendations on topics like cybersecurity, tax software integration, and customer service enhancements. Annually, the committee submits a report to Congress detailing the IRS’s progress toward electronic filing goals outlined in the 1998 Act. This makes ETAAC a vital bridge between the public, industry stakeholders, and the IRS, fostering innovations in tax processes.
Purpose of IRS Form 13768
IRS Form 13768, titled “Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee Membership Application,” is the required document for individuals seeking to join ETAAC. The form collects personal, professional, and qualification details to evaluate applicants’ suitability. It also facilitates necessary background checks, including FBI and tax compliance verifications, to ensure members meet high standards of integrity.
The form’s OMB Number is 1545-2231, and it’s revised as of January 2026. Submitting this application is voluntary, but it’s essential for consideration. The IRS uses the information to assess how applicants can represent diverse viewpoints from sectors like tax professionals, state tax administrations, and consumer advocacy groups.
Who Should Apply? Eligibility and Qualifications
ETAAC seeks diverse professionals with expertise in electronic tax administration. Ideal candidates include those with backgrounds in:
- Tax professionals
- Communications
- Financial services
- Cybersecurity and information security
- State tax administration
- Consumer advocacy
- Tax software development
- Payroll industry
Applicants must demonstrate skills in areas such as tax software development, tax preparation, payroll processing, systems management, customer service initiatives, and consumer advocacy. You should also show the ability to analyze issues from a broad perspective and communicate recommendations effectively.
Prior experience with IRS councils or committees (e.g., IRS Advisory Council or Taxpayer Advocacy Panel) should be disclosed, but it’s not a requirement. The IRS encourages applications from individuals who can represent organizational viewpoints and contribute to macro-level discussions on electronic tax strategies.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out IRS Form 13768?
Filling out Form 13768 is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The form is divided into six parts:
Part I: Applicant Information
Provide your full name, any maiden or other names used (with dates), home address, phone number, date of birth, birthplace, business details (name, address, job title, phone, fax, email), and select your primary background category (e.g., Cybersecurity). This section supports FBI background checks.
Part II: Desired Skills and Qualifications
Submit a brief statement on your affiliations with organizations or groups you represent, explaining how these connections inform their views. Additionally, include a one- or two-page statement with recent examples of your experience in cybersecurity, tax software, preparation, payroll processes, systems improvement, customer service, consumer advocacy, public administration, and macro-issue communication.
Part III: Applicant Resume
Attach your resume, highlighting prior Treasury or IRS employment (positions, titles, dates), professional credentials, organizational memberships, and any IRS liaison activities.
Part IV: Prior IRS Councils/Committees
List any previous involvement in IRS-related committees, including names and dates of membership.
Part V: Consent to Disclose Tax Compliance Check
After submitting Form 13768, you’ll receive Form 14767 via email. You must complete and return it to finalize your application.
Part VI: Applicant Signature
Sign and date the form, certifying that all information is true and complete.
The estimated time to complete the form is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, per the Paperwork Reduction Act Notice.
How to Submit Your ETAAC Membership Application?
Submit your completed Form 13768 by the close of business on February 28, 2026. Options include:
- Email: [email protected]
- Fax: 855-811-8021
Include your statement of interest and resume as attachments. After submission, expect Form 14767 for the tax compliance consent. Selected members will begin their three-year terms in September 2026.
Note: The Privacy Act Notice emphasizes that providing information is voluntary but aids processing. It’s used for tax, FBI, and practitioner checks, with confidentiality protected under section 6103.
Download IRS Form 13768
To get started, download the latest version of IRS Form 13768 directly from the official IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f13768.pdf. Ensure you’re using the January 2026 revision for the current application cycle.
Why Join ETAAC? Benefits and Impact
Becoming an ETAAC member allows you to shape the future of electronic tax administration, influencing policies that affect millions of taxpayers and professionals. It’s an opportunity to advocate for better cybersecurity, streamlined e-filing, and enhanced services. Past committees have contributed to significant IRS advancements, as detailed in their annual reports to Congress.
If you have the expertise and passion for improving tax systems, applying via Form 13768 could be your next step. For more details, visit the IRS ETAAC page or consult the latest news releases. Stay informed on IRS updates to ensure your application stands out in 2026.