IRS

IRS services for underserved taxpayers are good but can be better, report says

While the IRS has focused on improving customer service for underserved taxpayers, TIGTA noted that the tax agency doesn’t currently have a definition for such taxpayers.

  • Sean Michael Newhouse

Tax audits for some millionaires may be more effective than targeting a wider range, report finds

The TIGTA report compared a 2020 IRS directive that required annual audits on some individuals making more than $10 million to a wider income range, finding that the former yielded more assessments.

  • Sean Michael Newhouse

What it will take to make Direct File permanent

The IRS will have to grapple with expanding access and capabilities — while also convincing skeptical lawmakers to maintain funding.

  • Natalie Alms

IRS is reducing its physical footprint but needs a better long-term plan, its IG says

The IRS has reduced its office space by 2 million square feet since fiscal 2018, but the watchdog said it could save millions in real estate costs with additional steps.

  • Erich Wagner

IRS makes Direct File permanent

The tool piloted during the recent tax season helped certain taxpayers file online with the government for free.

  • Natalie Alms

IRS wants tax training focused on big filers

The agency seeks better training and access to tax law expertise regarding large organizations and wealthy individuals.

  • Nick Wakeman

IRS chief pleads for another funding boost to skeptical lawmakers

Commissioner says recent successful tax season is unsustainable without more cash to sustain resources.

  • Eric Katz

IRS says layoffs possibly by 2026 without sustained funding boost

The tax agency plans to grow its workforce another 14% in the coming years, but such growth could prove unsustainable.

  • Eric Katz

IRS considers the future of its Direct File pilot

The agency hasn’t decided if it’ll field the program long term but does say that user feedback of the tool has largely been positive.

  • Natalie Alms

Bipartisan group looks to push IRS towards simpler math error notices

The IRS MATH Act would require the tax agency to send more specific, straightforward notices when it corrects simple math errors on tax returns.

  • Natalie Alms

IRS commissioner indicates AI will play growing role in future tax collection

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel opined about the agency’s current and future use of AI just days after Tax Day.

  • Frank Konkel

100,000 have used IRS Direct File to submit their tax returns

The agency has not yet determined whether the pilot program for the tool will be extended into a permanent offering.

  • Natalie Alms
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Taxes are due even if you object to government policies or doubt the validity of the 16th Amendment’s ratification

The IRS "has stated repeatedly that a taxpayer does not have the right to refuse to pay taxes based on religious or moral beliefs."

  • Michele Frank, The Conversation

The IRS is testing a free method to directly file taxes. But not everyone is thrilled

The IRS estimates that 19 million taxpayers are eligible to use the new program in advance of the April 15 tax filing deadline.

  • Ashley Murray, States Newsroom

House GOP members want info on IRS’ alleged AI ‘financial surveillance’ of citizens

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, and Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., requested more details about the tax agency’s use of artificial intelligence in its enforcement efforts in a letter published Wednesday.

  • Carten Cordell

GOP bill aims to limit IRS’ use of AI

The legislation — cosponsored by Reps. Clay Higgins, R-La., and Eric Burlison, R- Mo. — could look to put new restrictions on the tax agency’s deployment of AI in its revenue enforcement efforts and require staff to launch new investigations. 

  • Carten Cordell

IRS has some of the oldest tech in government — it’s trying to change that

Agency leadership views the “historic funding” provided under the Inflation Reduction Act as an opportunity to get out from under the list of needed tech improvements that have long plagued the IRS.

  • Natalie Alms

Applications for revenue-generating IRS jobs are ‘far below’ agency goals

The tax agency is facing major hurdles with its big ambitions for hiring to slash uncollected taxes.

  • Eric Katz

IRS Direct File to be fully available March 12

The tool is a new way for eligible taxpayers to file directly with the IRS online for free.

  • Natalie Alms

IRS opens up Direct File to the public

Interested taxpayers will have to watch the IRS website to see when the tool is open for new users.

  • Natalie Alms

Getting ready for tax season

Some tax tips to consider as you plan for life after your federal career.

  • Tammy Flanagan