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IRS Agent
Government & Civil ServiceYou work for the most universally disliked government agency in America, and telling people at parties is a great way to end conversations. You'll audit tax returns, investigate fraud, and collect unpaid taxes from people who range from confused to deliberately criminal. The work is important, the job security is excellent, and nobody will ever be excited to hear from you.
Salary Range
Low
$50k
Median
$78k
High
$115k
10-Year Growth
average
US Workers
78K
Education
Bachelor's in Accounting or Finance + IRS training program
Environment
indoor
Tools & Technical Skills
- ▸IRS examination procedures and audit techniques
- ▸Federal tax code (IRC) interpretation
- ▸Financial statement and tax return analysis
- ▸Interview and summons procedures
- ▸IRS case management systems
- ▸Forensic accounting and fraud detection
People & Mindset Skills
- ▸Analytical thinking
- ▸Professional assertiveness
- ▸Ethical conduct
- ▸Written communication
- ▸Attention to detail
- ▸Patience with complex cases
What you'll actually do
- 01Audit tax returns and figure out if the numbers are wrong because of mistakes or because of intent
- 02Interview taxpayers who are either terrified or suspiciously calm — neither is a good sign
- 03Review financial records that range from meticulous to 'I kept my receipts in a grocery bag'
- 04Calculate taxes owed and negotiate payment plans for people who definitely can't pay in full
- 05Investigate suspected fraud cases that sometimes involve fake businesses, shell companies, and cash under mattresses
- 06Tell people at social gatherings where you work and watch the mood change instantly
Related Shifts
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