The Internal Revenue Service is inviting the public to contribute ideas as part of an effort to ensure high performance standards for all tax preparers.

“We are casting a wide net and seeking comment from not only tax preparers and the industry but also from the general public,” IRS commissioner Doug Shulman said.

“We encourage a wide range of people, including taxpayers themselves, to give us their ideas and suggestions.”

Written comments must be received by Aug. 31, 2009.

They should be submitted to CCPA:LPD:PR (Notice 2009-60), Room 5203, Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 7604, Ben Franklin Station, Washington, DC 20044.

Comments may also be e-mailed to: Notice.Comments@irscounsel.treas.gov.

Please include “Notice 2009-60” in the subject line of any e-mail messages. More details can be found in IRS Notice 2009-60.

The IRS announced a series of public forums, beginning in Washington, D.C., on July 30, to gather input from various stakeholder groups and organizations.