According to the Internal Revenue Service, “the agency reaches out in multiple ways to educate taxpayers while ensuring it fairly enforces the nation’s tax laws.” The IRS also states that there are important factors to keep in mind about when and how the IRS may initiate direct contact with a taxpayer.
Revenue Officers
IRS Revenue officers are also referred to as civil enforcement employees. These officers generally work to solve compliance issues such as reconciling situations regarding returns that have not been filed as well as taxes that have not yet been paid. The agency states that the taxpayer would have received several warnings via mail before a Revenue officer will meet with them. These meetings can be unscheduled.
Revenue Agents
Revenue agents represent the audit sector of the Internal Revenue Service. These agents conduct in-person field audits that can take place in the home, or business of the taxpayer in question. Prior to showing up to a taxpayer’s house or office to access financials, Revenue agents are expected to call or mail the taxpayer to warn them.
Important Takeaways
It is important for taxpayers to know how to tell if a revenue agent or officer is legitimate. Both Revenue officers and agents are required to carry two forms of official credentials, with a serial number and their photo. Taxpayers have the right to see each of these two credentials as well as ask for an additional form of identification.
Wrap Up
It is important to note that unexpected visits from IRS agents are relatively unlikely. The IRS states on its website that taxpayers should be well aware of a tax issue before any phone calls or visitations occur, as the agency sends a plethora of warnings via mail.