Comment: The Alternative Minimum Tax approach is OK, but the way you arrive at the AMT amount is horrific. Lay on Mr. Bush's desk the Instructions for Form 6251 and he will probably agree it's horrific. A CPA will tell you Form 6251 if great, but a tax payer shouldn't have to hire someone to fill out that form. Instead of changing the complete tax system, start with Form 6251 and simplify it, with the goal to obtain the same revenue as before. If tax payers understand 6251 they are more likely to comply, this could then reduce your auditing cost and receive tax payments faster. Next, look at Schedule D, here again much improvement can be made in the procedures. Take one form at a time and make improvements, let the tax payers know what you are doing, and I'm sure they will appreciate the IRS effort. Ken Stovall |