Tax Examiners
Tax examiners review tax returns filed by individuals and businesses to make sure people are paying the right amount of taxes. They use accounting software and digital systems to conduct audits, investigate discrepancies, and contact taxpayers when there are questions about deductions or missing payments. This job requires strong attention to detail, math skills, and knowledge of tax laws, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Tax examiners often work in government offices but may also travel to conduct field audits and collaborate with other agencies to ensure tax compliance.
Did you know?
A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field is typically required, with CPA certification providing significant career advancement opportunities.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$62,800 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Active Listening
Things to consider
Security Clearance and Background Checks
Positions often require extensive background investigations and security clearances due to access to sensitive taxpayer information and financial data.
Government Employment Benefits
Federal and state tax investigator positions typically offer excellent job security, comprehensive health benefits, and defined pension plans compared to private sector alternatives.
Key responsibilities
Confer with taxpayers or their representatives to discuss the issues, laws, and regulations involved in returns, and to resolve problems with returns.
Secure a taxpayer's agreement to discharge a tax assessment or submit contested determinations to other administrative or judicial conferees for appeals hearings.
Notify taxpayers of any overpayment or underpayment, and either issue a refund or request further payment.
Examine accounting systems and records to determine whether accounting methods used were appropriate and in compliance with statutory provisions.
Maintain knowledge of tax code changes, and of accounting procedures and theory to properly evaluate financial information.