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How to Start a Career at the IRS

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Introduction

Hey there, welcome to Bottomline Tax.  Are you looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career in public service? Do you want to work for an organization that helps millions of Americans every year with their taxes and other financial matters? If so, you might want to consider working for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the nation’s tax collection agency.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury that administers and enforces federal tax laws. The IRS collects over $3.5 trillion in taxes each year from more than 150 million individual taxpayers and 10 million business entities. The IRS also provides taxpayer assistance, education, and outreach programs, as well as oversees tax-exempt organizations, retirement plans, health care laws, and international tax issues.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about IRS careers, from what the IRS does and why it’s important, to what types of jobs are available and how to apply for them. I’ll also share some of the benefits and challenges of working for the IRS, as well as some events and resources for potential candidates. And finally, I’ll show you how to find and apply for current vacancies at the IRS.

So, if you’re ready to learn more about this exciting opportunity, let’s get started!

What is the IRS?

The IRS is more than just a tax collector. It’s also an organization that has been part of events that have helped shape the nation we serve. For example, the IRS played a role in funding major public works projects during the Great Depression, supporting the war effort during World War II, implementing social programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, and combating fraud, identity theft, and terrorism financing.

Why is the IRS important in tax collection and enforcement?

The IRS is important in tax collection and enforcement because it ensures that everyone pays their fair share of taxes and that the government has the resources it needs to provide essential services and programs to the American people. The IRS also helps protect the integrity and fairness of the tax system by detecting and correcting errors, resolving disputes, and pursuing noncompliance. By doing so, the IRS fosters trust and confidence in the tax system and promotes voluntary compliance.

Types of Jobs at the IRS

The IRS has positions for people pursuing careers not only in business, accounting, and tax, but also customer service, criminal investigation, information technology, business administration, law, communications, and so much more. The IRS employs over 80,000 people in various locations across the country and around the world. Below we will discuss some of the most common job categories at the IRS.

What are the various roles at the IRS?

The IRS has four main operating divisions that serve different segments of taxpayers. They are:

• Wage and Investment (W&I): It serves individual taxpayers who file simple tax returns and have wage income or investment income.
• Small Business/Self-Employed (SB/SE): It serves small businesses and self-employed individuals who have more complex tax situations and need more guidance.
• Large Business and International (LB&I): It serves large corporations and partnerships that have assets of $10 million or more and operate in multiple countries.
• Tax Exempt and Government Entities (TE/GE): It serves organizations that are exempt from federal income tax, such as charities, churches, schools, and retirement plans, as well as federal, state, local, and tribal governments.

All of these divisions require people with the following specialties:

• Tax Examiners: They review tax returns, conduct audits, and communicate with taxpayers and their representatives.
• Revenue Agents: They examine complex tax returns, conduct field audits, and investigate potential fraud or evasion.
• Revenue Officers: They collect delinquent taxes, secure tax returns, and enforce liens and levies.
• Contact Representatives: They answer phone calls, emails, and letters from taxpayers and provide information and assistance.
• Clerks: They perform administrative tasks such as data entry, filing, scanning, and mail processing.
• Criminal Investigators: They investigate criminal violations of tax laws and related financial crimes.
• Information Technology Specialists: They design, develop, maintain, and secure the IRS’ computer systems, networks, and applications.
• Attorneys: They provide legal advice, representation, and guidance on tax matters to the IRS and other government agencies.
• Analysts: They conduct research, analysis, and evaluation on various tax issues, policies, and programs.
• Managers: They supervise, coach, and lead teams of employees in various functions and divisions.

What qualifications are required for each role?

If you are interested in working for the IRS, you may be wondering what qualifications you need to apply for different roles. The IRS offers a variety of career paths, from tax examiners and revenue agents to IT specialists and attorneys. The qualifications required for each role depend on the level of responsibility, complexity, and specialization of the job.

However, there are some general requirements that apply to all IRS jobs, such as:

• Being a U.S. citizen or a U.S. national
• Having a valid Social Security number
• Passing a background investigation and a tax compliance check
• Meeting the minimum education and/or experience requirements for the specific role

Generally speaking, most entry-level positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may also require some college education or relevant work experience. For higher-level positions, a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field may be required. Some positions may also require professional certifications or licenses. For example:

• Tax Examiners typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
• Revenue Agents typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field with at least 30 semester hours in accounting. They may also need to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), an Enrolled Agent (EA), or an attorney.
• Revenue Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in any field with at least 30 semester hours in accounting or business-related subjects.
• Contact Representatives typically need a high school diploma or equivalent with some customer service experience.
• Clerks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent with some clerical skills.
• Criminal Investigators typically need a bachelor’s degree in any field with at least 15 semester hours in accounting plus 9 semester hours in related subjects such as law or criminal justice. They also need to pass a physical fitness test and a background investigation.
• Information Technology Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field with at least 24 semester hours in computer-related subjects. They may also need to have certain certifications or skills depending on the specialty area.
• Attorneys typically need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and be admitted to practice law in any state or territory of the U.S. or the District of Columbia. They also need to have at least one year of specialized experience in tax law, such as working for the IRS, a state tax agency, or a private firm.

How much can I make at the IRS?

Here are some average yearly salaries for various roles at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS):

Consider also these administrative roles and their hourly pay:

Please note that these are estimated figures and actual salaries may vary. It’s also important to remember that salaries can depend on factors such as location, level of experience, and the specific department within the IRS.

While we’re discussing money, there is a website where you can make extra cash by hanging out online doing simple internet tasks.

For more information about IRS salaries check out the Indeed.com IRS Profile.

The Application Process

Once you have found a role that matches your qualifications and interests, you can start the application process. The application process for IRS jobs consists of several steps, such as:

1. Creating an account on USAJOBS.gov, the federal government’s official employment site
2. Submitting your resume and supporting documents online
3. Completing an online assessment that tests your knowledge, skills and abilities related to the role
4. Waiting for an email notification about your eligibility and rating
5. If you are among the best qualified candidates, you may be contacted for an interview or a further assessment
6. If you are selected, you will receive a tentative job offer and instructions on how to complete the pre-employment process
7. If you pass the pre-employment process, you will receive a final job offer and a start date

The application process may take several weeks or months, depending on the role and the number of applicants. You can check the status of your application online at any time.

How can one apply for IRS jobs?

To apply for IRS jobs, you need to follow the steps outlined in the previous section. However, before you start the application process, you should do some research and preparation to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips on how to apply for IRS jobs:

• Explore the IRS website and learn more about the agency’s mission, vision and values
• Review the different career paths and roles available at the IRS and identify those that match your qualifications and interests
• Read the job announcements carefully and pay attention to the duties, responsibilities, qualifications and requirements of each role
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant education, experience, skills and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the role
• Gather all the supporting documents that you may need to submit with your application, such as transcripts, certificates, licenses, etc.
• Prepare for the online assessment by reviewing the sample questions and practicing your skills
• Follow the instructions and deadlines for submitting your application online
• Keep track of your application status and respond promptly to any requests or notifications from the IRS

What are some tips for creating a standout application?

Besides following the steps and tips mentioned above, there are some additional ways to make your application stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips for creating a standout application:

• Showcase your passion and enthusiasm for working at the IRS and serving the public interest
• Use specific examples and numbers to quantify your accomplishments and impact in your previous roles or projects
• Demonstrate your knowledge of current tax laws, regulations and policies that affect the role you are applying for
• Showcase your communication, teamwork, problem-solving and customer service skills that are essential for working at the IRS
• Avoid spelling, grammar or formatting errors that may undermine your professionalism and credibility
• Ask someone to proofread your resume and cover letter before submitting them online
• Be honest and accurate in your application and do not exaggerate or falsify any information

Benefits of Working for the IRS

If you’re looking for a rewarding career in public service, you might want to consider working for the IRS. The IRS offers competitive salaries, flexible work schedules, and a variety of benefits to its employees. Some of the benefits include:

– Health insurance: You can choose from several health plans that cover medical, dental, and vision care. You also have access to health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and wellness programs.
– Retirement savings: You can participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which provides a pension, a thrift savings plan, and Social Security benefits. You can also contribute to a Roth IRA or a traditional IRA with pre-tax or after-tax dollars.
– Life insurance: You can enroll in the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program, which offers basic and optional coverage for yourself and your dependents. You can also purchase additional coverage through private insurers.
– Disability insurance: You can apply for the Federal Employees’ Disability Retirement program, which provides income and health benefits if you become disabled and unable to work. You can also purchase long-term disability insurance through private insurers.
– Leave and holidays: You can earn annual leave, sick leave, and paid time off for federal holidays. You can also use leave for family and medical reasons, military service, jury duty, and other purposes.
– Employee assistance: You can access free and confidential counseling, referrals, and resources for personal and work-related issues. You can also take advantage of programs that support your education, career development, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

What career development opportunities does the IRS offer?

The IRS is committed to helping its employees grow and advance in their careers. The IRS offers a variety of opportunities for career development, such as:

– Training: You can access online courses, webinars, podcasts, videos, and other learning resources on topics related to your job and professional interests. You can also attend classroom training, workshops, seminars, and conferences offered by the IRS or external providers.
– Mentoring: You can find a mentor or become a mentor to share your knowledge and experience with others. You can also join mentoring circles or networks to connect with peers and leaders in your field.
– Coaching: You can request coaching from a certified coach or a supervisor to improve your performance, skills, or competencies. You can also learn coaching techniques to help others achieve their goals.
– Career planning: You can use tools and resources to assess your strengths, interests, and values; explore career options; set goals; and create action plans. You can also seek guidance from career counselors or advisors to help you with your career decisions.
– Mobility: You can apply for internal vacancies, details, rotations, or assignments that match your career goals and qualifications. You can also pursue external opportunities through interagency agreements, fellowships, exchanges, or partnerships.

What are the benefits of public service?

Working for the IRS is more than just a job. It’s a way of serving your country and making a difference in the lives of millions of people. Some of the benefits of public service are:

– Mission: You can be part of a mission that is vital to the nation’s economy and security. The IRS collects taxes, enforces tax laws, assists taxpayers, and protects taxpayer rights. The IRS also supports other federal agencies and programs that serve the public interest.
– Impact: You can have a positive impact on individuals, businesses, communities, and society. The IRS helps taxpayers understand and comply with their tax obligations; provides refunds, credits, and relief to eligible taxpayers; resolves tax disputes and issues; prevents fraud and identity theft; and promotes fairness and integrity in the tax system.
– Recognition: You can receive recognition for your achievements and contributions. The IRS rewards its employees with performance awards, bonuses, incentives, commendations, honors, and other forms of recognition. The IRS also celebrates its employees’ diversity, innovation, teamwork, and service.

How does the IRS promote diversity and inclusion?

The IRS values diversity and inclusion as essential elements of its organizational culture and performance. The IRS promotes diversity and inclusion by:

– Recruiting: The IRS seeks to attract and hire qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. The IRS participates in outreach events, job fairs, partnerships, internships, scholarships, and other initiatives to recruit talent from various sources.
– Retaining: The IRS strives to retain its employees by providing them with a supportive and inclusive work environment. The IRS fosters a culture of respect, trust, and collaboration among its employees. The IRS also offers flexible work arrangements, reasonable accommodations, and employee resource groups to meet the needs and preferences of its employees.
– Developing: The IRS invests in the development of its employees by offering them opportunities to learn, grow, and advance in their careers. The IRS provides training, mentoring, coaching, career planning, and mobility programs to enhance the skills, knowledge, and potential of its employees. The IRS also encourages its employees to participate in leadership development programs, cross-functional teams, and special projects to broaden their exposure and experience.
– Engaging: The IRS engages its employees by soliciting their feedback, input, and ideas on various issues and initiatives. The IRS conducts surveys, focus groups, town halls, forums, and other channels to communicate with its employees. The IRS also empowers its employees to share their opinions, suggestions, and concerns with their managers, leaders, and representatives.

Challenges of Working for the IRS

Working for the IRS can be rewarding, but also challenging. The IRS is responsible for collecting taxes, enforcing tax laws, and providing taxpayer services. As an IRS employee, you may face some of the following challenges:

• Complexity of tax laws. The tax code is constantly changing and evolving, and you need to keep up with the latest rules and regulations. You also need to apply them correctly and consistently to different situations and taxpayers.
• High workload and pressure. The IRS handles millions of tax returns, audits, appeals, and inquiries every year. You may have to deal with tight deadlines, heavy caseloads, and demanding customers. You also need to maintain high standards of accuracy, integrity, and professionalism.
• Public scrutiny and criticism. The IRS is often under the spotlight of the media, Congress, and the public. You may have to deal with negative perceptions, complaints, and allegations. You also need to protect the confidentiality and security of taxpayer information.

Despite these challenges, working for the IRS can also be rewarding. You can learn new skills, advance your career, and make a difference in the lives of millions of Americans. You can also enjoy benefits such as competitive pay, health insurance, retirement savings, and flexible work arrangements. If you are interested in working for the IRS, you can explore the career opportunities on their website.

What are the security clearance requirements at the IRS?

The IRS is a federal agency that deals with sensitive and confidential information. Therefore, it has strict security clearance requirements for its employees. Security clearance is a process that determines whether you are eligible and trustworthy to access classified or protected information. The level of clearance you need depends on the type and sensitivity of the information you handle.

The IRS has four levels of security clearance: public trust, low risk, moderate risk, and high risk. Public trust is the lowest level and applies to employees who have limited access to taxpayer information. Low risk is the next level and applies to employees who have access to more sensitive taxpayer information. Moderate risk is the third level and applies to employees who have access to classified or national security information. High risk is the highest level and applies to employees who have access to highly classified or critical information.

To obtain a security clearance, you need to undergo a background investigation that checks your identity, criminal history, credit history, employment history, education history, personal references, foreign contacts, and other relevant factors. You may also have to take a polygraph test or a psychological evaluation. The process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the level of clearance and the complexity of your case.

If you are granted a security clearance, you need to maintain it by following the rules and regulations of the IRS and the government. You also need to report any changes in your personal or professional situation that may affect your clearance status. You may have to renew your clearance periodically depending on the level and expiration date.

How does the high-stakes nature of tax enforcement affect work at the IRS?

Tax enforcement is one of the core functions of the IRS. It involves ensuring that taxpayers comply with their tax obligations and pay their fair share of taxes. Tax enforcement can have significant impacts on the economy, society, and national security. Therefore, it is a high-stakes activity that affects work at the IRS in various ways.

• It requires high levels of skill and expertise. Tax enforcement involves dealing with complex and diverse tax issues that require specialized knowledge and experience. You need to understand and apply tax laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and systems. You also need to use analytical, problem-solving, communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
• It involves high levels of responsibility and accountability. Tax enforcement affects the rights and obligations of taxpayers as well as the revenues and resources of the government. You need to perform your duties with honesty, integrity, impartiality, and professionalism. You also need to follow ethical standards and codes of conduct.
• It creates high levels of challenge and satisfaction. Tax enforcement involves facing difficult and dynamic situations that require creativity and adaptability. You need to cope with uncertainty, ambiguity, change, and conflict. You also need to balance competing interests and priorities. However, tax enforcement also provides opportunities for learning, growth, achievement, recognition, and reward.

Tax enforcement is a challenging but rewarding career path at the IRS. If you are interested in joining the tax enforcement team, you can find out more about the tax examiner, revenue agent, and revenue officer positions on their website.

Events and Resources for Potential Candidates

If you are interested in working for the IRS, you may want to attend some of the events and resources that we offer for potential candidates. These include webinars, workshops, career fairs, and more. You can learn more about the IRS mission, culture, and values, as well as the different career paths and opportunities that we have. You can also network with IRS employees and recruiters, and get tips on how to apply and prepare for the hiring process.

What webinars, workshops, career fairs, etc. does the IRS offer?

The IRS offers a variety of events and resources for potential candidates throughout the year. Some of these are:

• Webinars: These are online presentations that cover topics such as IRS careers overview, resume writing, interview skills, veterans hiring, and more. You can register for upcoming webinars or watch recorded ones on our website.
• Workshops: These are interactive sessions that provide hands-on guidance on how to apply for IRS jobs, how to navigate USAJOBS, how to create a federal resume, and more. You can find upcoming workshops on our website or request one for your organization or group.
• Career Fairs: These are in-person or virtual events where you can meet with IRS recruiters and employees, learn about our current job openings, and submit your resume. You can find upcoming career fairs on our website or follow us on social media for updates.
• Other Events: These are special events that we host or participate in, such as open houses, information sessions, panel discussions, podcasts, and more. You can find out about these events on our website or sign up for our email alerts.

How can potential candidates make the most of these resources?

To make the most of these resources, we recommend that you:

• Do your research: Before attending any event or resource, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to learn and what questions you want to ask. You can visit our website to explore our different career paths and opportunities, read our FAQs, and review our hiring process.
• Be prepared: Whether it is a webinar, a workshop, or a career fair, make sure you have everything you need to participate and engage. This may include a computer or phone with internet access, a headset or microphone, a pen and paper, a resume, and a list of references.
• Be professional: Treat every event or resource as an opportunity to make a good impression and showcase your skills and qualifications. Dress appropriately, be punctual, be respectful, be attentive, be enthusiastic, and be courteous.
• Follow up: After attending any event or resource, don’t forget to follow up with the IRS representatives that you met or interacted with. You can send them a thank-you email, connect with them on LinkedIn, or ask them for feedback or advice. This will help you build your network and show your interest in working for the IRS.

Current Vacancies

If you are looking for a rewarding career in public service, the IRS might be the place for you. The IRS offers a variety of positions across the country, from tax examiners and revenue agents to IT specialists and attorneys. You can browse the current vacancies on the USAJOBS website, where you can filter by location, salary range, job series, and more. You can also sign up for email alerts to get notified of new openings that match your criteria.

How can one find and apply for current job openings at the IRS?

Once you have found a job that interests you on the USAJOBS website, you can apply online by following the instructions on the announcement. You will need to create an account, upload your resume and supporting documents, answer some questions, and submit your application. You can track the status of your application on your dashboard and receive updates by email. You may also be contacted by a hiring manager or a human resources specialist for further steps, such as interviews or assessments.

Conclusion

The IRS is one of the largest and most diverse employers in the federal government, with opportunities for people of all backgrounds and skill levels. Working at the IRS means serving the American public and making a difference in the nation’s tax system. If you are interested in joining the IRS team, you can start by exploring the current vacancies and applying online. You can also learn more about the IRS culture, benefits, and career paths on the IRS careers website.