
Biases, Heuristics, Blind Spots, and Pitfalls in I.R.S. Transfer Pricing Exams
When a taxpayer receives an information document request (“I.D.R.”) from the I.R.S. for transfer pricing documentation, it should know what to expect: a lengthy, contentious process of documenting and defending its tax position. Pausing to think objectively about the cognitive biases, strengths, and weaknesses underlying a transfer pricing position is an essential step to take before delving into the technical aspects of the examination itself.