Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
Tax examiners and collectors determine how much tax individuals and businesses owe, then collect payments according to federal, state, and local laws. They work primarily for government agencies like the IRS, state tax departments, and local tax offices, reviewing tax returns, auditing records, and pursuing unpaid taxes.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing tax returns and financial documents for accuracy, conducting audits of individual or business records, corresponding with taxpayers about discrepancies, and documenting findings. Tax examiners may meet with taxpayers to explain tax liability, negotiate payment plans for overdue taxes, or prepare cases for collection. Office work dominates, though some travel to client locations or businesses occurs.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited for this work if you're detail-oriented and comfortable with rules and procedures. Success comes from enjoying problem-solving within defined systems and being able to persuade others to comply with regulations—traits common in people drawn to conventional and enterprising interests.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $73,350 | $96,420 | $121,880 | 1,430 |
| Alaska | $77,560 | $94,630 | $118,720 | 60 |
| Arizona | $65,000 | $92,680 | $113,900 | 230 |
| Connecticut | $72,280 | $89,140 | $110,920 | 940 |
| Kansas | $68,310 | $88,610 | $99,070 | 50 |
| Illinois | $62,390 | $80,720 | $102,360 | 1,350 |
| Minnesota | $64,060 | $79,000 | $97,860 | 1,150 |
| Ohio | $60,690 | $76,240 | $102,560 | 990 |
| Massachusetts | $62,230 | $75,560 | $100,480 | 1,260 |
| Nevada | $61,480 | $75,500 | $93,140 | 280 |
| California | $58,610 | $74,110 | $96,970 | 8,610 |
| Delaware | $61,990 | $72,900 | $89,610 | 110 |
All 50 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) — Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
- Certified International Tax Analyst (CITA) — American Academy of Financial Management
- Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP) — Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation
- Accredited Tax Advisor (ATA) — Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-2081.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.