A tax auditor is a professional who evaluates financial records to determine whether they comply with the applicable laws. All tax auditors apply the principles of accounting in the course of their duty. They work to check if companies, individuals, agencies and organizations comply with the federal, state and local tax laws.
Tax auditors can either be internal, external or government auditors. Internal auditors are employed to conduct audits and perform other accounting functions within a company. They can help identify fraud, tax errors and mismanagement of funds. External auditors are impartial third-parties. They help their clients file tax forms and educate employees on tax advantages. Government auditors are employed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They conduct random audits for companies, especially those suspected of tax evasion or fraud.
How to Become a Tax Auditor
Those who want to become tax auditors should undertake a bachelor’s degree course in accounting. An accounting degree enables students to learn a variety of topics related to accounting, including tax laws, fraud detection and auditing. Those who graduate with associate degrees can also qualify for some entry-level jobs under the supervision of an experienced and licensed auditor.
In addition to a degree, the federal government requires tax auditors to have a CPA certification. The CPA certification exam is administered by the state boards of accountancy. Applicants need at least a degree to qualify for the test. However, some states allow work experience as a substitute for academic requirements. CPA holders must pursue continuing education in order to maintain their CPA credential.
Tax Auditor Duties
- Perform IRS financial statement audits in accordance with IRS regulations and procedures.
- Develop and maintain a close relationship with clients.
- Prepare financial statements, schedules, and tax returns.
- Identify and resolve any financial discrepancies.
- Assist in the preparation of client financial statements.
- Assist in tax planning and preparation.
- Document all activities.
- Assist in correspondence with other accounting firm personnel.
Tax Auditor Responsibilities
- Review company financial documents for accuracy, collect and prepare documents for submission to tax authorities, and provide guidance and support to tax teams
- Train new and existing team members on tax matters
- Research tax regulations and legislation
- Create and review tax-related policies and procedures
- Perform tax audit reviews
- Conduct periodic review of tax-related internal controls
- Promote employee understanding of tax compliance
- Advise management on financial issues
- Perform other related duties as assigned
