How to become a tax examiners and collector, and revenue agents

Determine tax liability or collect taxes from individuals or business firms according to prescribed laws and regulations.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents do

• Contact taxpayers by mail or telephone to address discrepancies and to request supporting documentation.
• Confer with taxpayers or their representatives to discuss the issues, laws, and regulations involved in returns, and to resolve problems with returns.
• Answer questions from taxpayers and assist them in completing tax forms.
• Send notices to taxpayers when accounts are delinquent.
• Maintain records for each case, including contacts, telephone numbers, and actions taken.
• Notify taxpayers of any overpayment or underpayment, and either issue a refund or request further payment.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Writing
• Mathematics
• Active Learning
• Monitoring

Is tax examiners and collector, and revenue agents a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 22% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• New Jersey $96,420
• Alaska $94,630
• Arizona $92,680
• Connecticut $89,140
• Kansas $88,610

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.