IRS Tax Examiner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly complex tax environment, the focus on IRS Tax Examiners has never been greater.

As tax laws and regulations continue to evolve, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, interpret, and enforce our tax code.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an IRS Tax Examiner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of tax examination,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable IRS Tax Examiner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

IRS Tax Examiner Duties and Responsibilities

IRS Tax Examiners perform a variety of tasks related to reviewing and processing federal tax returns.

They play a crucial role in ensuring tax compliance and accuracy.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Review filed tax returns to verify that credits and deductions are claimed accurately
• Make necessary adjustments or corrections to tax returns, including calculating additional taxes owed or issuing refunds
• Apply tax laws and regulations to determine the legitimacy of claims
• Contact taxpayers or their representatives to address discrepancies and to request supporting documentation
• Keep updated with changes in tax laws and regulations
• Provide responses to taxpayer inquiries regarding tax returns and account status
• Perform clerical duties, including maintaining accurate records of completed work
• Collaborate with other tax examiners, revenue agents, and tax compliance officers to resolve complex tax issues

 

IRS Tax Examiner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and reliable IRS Tax Examiner to join our team.

The IRS Tax Examiner responsibilities include reviewing tax returns, conducting audits, identifying taxes owed, and advising taxpayers on how to fulfill their tax obligations.

The ideal candidate should possess a solid understanding of tax laws and regulations, have exceptional communication skills, and be capable of dealing with complex tax situations.

 

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze tax returns to ensure compliance with tax laws
• Conduct audits and investigations into tax returns
• Identify and calculate taxes owed
• Provide advice and guidance to taxpayers on tax obligations
• Prepare and maintain tax reports and records
• Resolve taxpayer disputes and issues
• Stay updated with changes in tax laws and regulations
• Communicate effectively with taxpayers and other stakeholders
• Adhere to professional standards and confidentiality regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Tax Examiner or similar role
• Thorough knowledge of tax laws, regulations and procedures
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High attention to detail
• Strong mathematical and accounting skills
• BSc degree in Accounting, Finance or relevant field
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: IRS Tax Examiner
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for audits or taxpayer consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tax Examination Supervisor or Tax Department Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an IRS Tax Examiner Do?

IRS Tax Examiners work for the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. government agency responsible for tax collection and tax law enforcement.

Their primary role is to review tax returns for accuracy and completeness.

They also verify that all the deductions, exemptions, and credits are properly claimed by taxpayers and that they are in compliance with the federal tax regulations.

IRS Tax Examiners handle both individual and business tax returns.

They scrutinize the details to ensure the correctness of the income reported, the tax calculated, and the payment received.

If there are discrepancies or inconsistencies, they will initiate further investigation, which may involve contacting the taxpayer or their representative for additional information.

They are also responsible for resolving taxpayer inquiries regarding their tax accounts, providing assistance in understanding tax obligations, and helping them to resolve any tax-related issues they may have.

In certain cases, IRS Tax Examiners may be involved in conducting audits and investigations of complex tax evasion cases.

Their job also involves keeping up to date with the latest changes in tax laws and regulations to ensure accurate and timely processing of tax returns.

IRS Tax Examiners play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the federal tax system and ensuring that all taxpayers meet their tax obligations.

 

IRS Tax Examiner Qualifications and Skills

A successful IRS Tax Examiner should have the qualifications and skills that align with the responsibilities of the role, including:

• Comprehensive knowledge of tax laws, policies, and regulations to accurately examine tax returns.
• Excellent attention to detail to identify inaccuracies and discrepancies in tax returns and to ensure all calculations are correct.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate tax information, assess compliance with tax laws, and determine the amount of tax liability.
• Effective communication skills to discuss tax issues with taxpayers or their representatives, provide guidance, and clearly explain tax laws and regulations.
• Good interpersonal skills to work with a team and handle difficult situations or disputes with taxpayers.
• Proficiency in using tax software and computer systems to process tax returns and maintain records.
• Problem-solving skills to resolve issues related to tax returns and payments.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity to handle sensitive taxpayer information confidentially and professionally.

 

IRS Tax Examiner Experience Requirements

Entry-level tax examiners with the IRS may have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in financial, auditing, tax, or legal roles.

This experience is often gained through internships, part-time jobs, or in roles such as financial analyst, auditor, tax preparer, or legal assistant.

Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field may qualify for some entry-level positions without experience.

However, specific coursework in tax law, auditing, or similar areas can be beneficial.

Tax examiners with more than 3 years of experience typically have advanced their knowledge in tax law, compliance, auditing, and investigation.

They may have gained this experience in roles within the IRS, in private tax or auditing firms, or in legal practices specializing in tax law.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have a background in managing complex audits, investigations, or appeals.

They may be qualified for senior or supervisory roles within the IRS.

Moreover, some senior tax examiner roles require specialized training or certifications, such as being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE).

Continuous professional development in areas like tax law updates, auditing techniques, and fraud detection is also essential for career advancement in this field.

 

IRS Tax Examiner Education and Training Requirements

IRS Tax Examiners typically hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, economics, or a related field.

Their course of study should include taxation and business law, along with general accounting principles and practices.

Many positions may also require or prefer candidates with a master’s degree in taxation or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential.

In-depth knowledge of federal tax laws, regulations and procedures is essential for this role.

Tax Examiners with the IRS often receive on-the-job training, but previous experience in tax preparation or auditing can be beneficial.

Continuing education is important in this field, as tax laws and regulations frequently change.

Therefore, many Tax Examiners choose to engage in ongoing professional development opportunities and additional coursework.

IRS Tax Examiners must also possess good analytical, communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with taxpayers and other professionals.

 

IRS Tax Examiner Salary Expectations

An IRS Tax Examiner can expect to earn an average salary of $54,000 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can significantly vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.

Additionally, working for the federal government often comes with a comprehensive benefits package.

 

IRS Tax Examiner Job Description FAQs

What skills does an IRS Tax Examiner need?

IRS Tax Examiners should have excellent analytical skills to understand and interpret complex tax laws and documentation.

They need strong attention to detail to ensure accurate and thorough examination of tax returns.

Good communication skills are also essential to explain tax information to taxpayers and to collaborate with other tax professionals.

 

Do IRS Tax Examiners need a degree?

A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become an IRS Tax Examiner.

However, some positions may accept an equivalent combination of education and experience in business, finance, or tax law.

 

What should you look for in an IRS Tax Examiner resume?

An ideal IRS Tax Examiner resume will show a strong background in tax law or accounting, preferably with a focus on tax examination.

Look for experience in auditing, financial analysis, or related areas.

Additionally, proficiency in tax software and strong communication skills are important.

Any specific experiences dealing with complex tax situations or auditing large corporations can be a significant advantage.

 

What qualities make a good IRS Tax Examiner?

A good IRS Tax Examiner is highly detail-oriented and meticulous, ensuring all tax documents are correctly examined.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to handle complex tax situations.

In addition, they need to demonstrate integrity and professionalism, as they will be handling confidential information.

 

Is it difficult to hire an IRS Tax Examiner?

Hiring an IRS Tax Examiner can be challenging due to the specific expertise required for this role.

The candidate must have a solid understanding of tax law and ideally some experience in auditing or tax examination.

Therefore, finding a suitable candidate may take time and require a thorough search process.

However, promoting competitive salary packages, continuous learning opportunities, and a stable career path can attract qualified applicants.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the intricate workings of an IRS Tax Examiner.

Surprising revelation?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about fortifying the nation’s fiscal health, one tax return at a time.

Armed with our reliable IRS Tax Examiner job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to embark on this career path.

But why restrict yourself here?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tax return is a part of the larger fiscal framework.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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