§ 48-1-9 — Taxpayer Bill of Rights

(a) This Code section shall be known and may be cited as the "Taxpayer Bill of Rights." (b) The commissioner shall, as soon as practicable, but not later than January 1, 1994, prepare a statement which sets forth in simple and nontechnical terms: (1) The rights of a taxpayer and the obligations of the commissioner during any tax audit or examination; (2) The procedure by which a taxpayer may appeal any adverse decision of the commissioner, including administrative and judicial appeals; (3) The procedures for prosecuting refund claims and for filing of taxpayer complaints; and (4) The procedures which the commissioner may use in enforcing the state's revenue laws, including the filing and enforcement of liens. (c) The statement shall also inform the taxpayer that the taxpayer shall receive: (1) Fair and courteous treatment in all dealings with the department; (2) Prompt and accurate responses to all questions and requests for tax assistance; and (3) A fair and timely hearing on a dispute of any tax liability as provided for by law. (d) The statement prepared in accordance with this Code section shall be distributed by the commissioner to a taxpayer: (1) Upon request by the taxpayer; (2) When a proposed assessment of any state tax is made against the taxpayer or when the taxpayer is contacted by the department for an examination of the taxpayer's records, whichever is earlier; or (3) When the commissioner deems it appropriate. (e) The commissioner shall take such action as deemed necessary to ensure that distribution to a taxpayer does not result in multiple statements being sent to any one taxpayer.