Internal revenue agents examine and audit the financial records of individuals, businesses, and other organizations to determine their correct federal income tax liability. In district offices throughout the country, agents audit income tax returns, handle investigations, and provide information and assistance to the public on questions concerning income taxes.
A rapidly expanding career field within the Internal Revenue Service is computerized information processing. Job openings for mathematicians, statisticians, computer programmers, systems analysts, economists, and other computer specialists are increasing steadily.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Internal revenue agents work throughout the country, as well as in Washington, D.C. Agents usually work a normal 40-hour workweek with occasional overtime during peak workloads. Agents involved in auditing and investigative work may spend some time in travel.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
Aptitude for mathematics, ability to do detailed work accurately and to work independently, as well as patience, tact, and ability to get along with people are important for this job.
In high school, a college preparatory course with plenty of mathematics should be followed. A college degree is required for all internal revenue agents. A degree in accounting or law or a liberal arts degree with some study of accounting and directly related subjects has been the traditional background for agents. Degrees in computer-related specialties are now also accepted.
Most new agents are hired by district offices through local college recruitment programs. Applicants must pass a civil service examination before being hired. (See job description for civil service worker, federal.)
Potential and Advancement
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for internal revenue agents is bleak. It is estimated that the demand for agents will shrink by 6% between 2014 and 2024.
Income
Internal revenue personnel are paid according to the federal General Schedule (GS) salary scale. Beginning salaries depend on education and college grades. Within-grade increases and promotions are rapid, for the most part.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for internal revenue agents was $51,430 in 2015.
Related Jobs
Related jobs include accountants and auditors, budget analysts, cost estimators, financial analysts, financial managers, and loan officers.
