The IRS hires through USAJobs, not through local offices or the IRS website itself

The Internal Revenue Service posts all job openings on USAJobs.gov, the federal government's official employment portal. You cannot walk into an IRS office, call a local number, or submit a resume directly to the IRS and expect to be hired. Every position — from entry-level data entry to tax auditor to criminal investigator — goes through USAJobs first.

The hiring process is standardized across all federal agencies. You create a USAJobs account, search for IRS positions by location and job title, and submit your application through their system. The IRS then reviews applications, conducts interviews, and makes offers through the same platform. This process typically takes three to six months from application to job offer, though it can be longer for positions requiring a security clearance.

Most IRS jobs require U.S. citizenship, a valid Social Security number, and the ability to pass a background check. Some positions also require a security clearance, which adds time to the hiring process. The IRS does not charge application fees, and you should never pay money to anyone claiming they can get you an IRS job.

Key Takeaways

  • All IRS positions are posted on USAJobs.gov; there is no other official hiring channel.
  • You must create a free USAJobs account and submit your application through their system, not by email or mail.
  • Most IRS jobs require U.S. citizenship, a background check, and sometimes a security clearance.
  • The hiring timeline from application to job offer usually runs three to six months.
  • Common entry-level positions include tax examiner, revenue agent, and customer service representative.

Finding IRS job openings on USAJobs

Go to USAJobs.gov and use the search filters to narrow results. In the keyword field, type "IRS" or the specific job title you want — "tax examiner," "revenue agent," "criminal investigator," or "customer service representative" are common entry points. Use the "Agency" filter and select "Internal Revenue Service." You can also filter by location, salary range, and job level.

IRS positions are classified by grade level, starting at GS-2 or GS-3 for entry-level work and going up to GS-15 for senior roles. Entry-level positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent; mid-level positions usually require some work experience or a college degree. Read the "Qualifications" section of each posting carefully — it lists exactly what education, experience, or certifications you need.

Job postings stay open for a set number of days, usually seven to fourteen. Once the closing date passes, you cannot submit an application for that posting. Set up a USAJobs job alert for "IRS" so you receive email notifications when new positions open in your area.

What you need to prepare before applying

Gather these documents before you start an application: a current resume, your Social Security number, dates of employment for your last five years of work, names and contact information for references, and your highest level of education (diploma, degree, or transcript). Have this information ready because USAJobs requires you to enter it directly into the application form — you cannot simply upload a resume and move on.

Your resume should list your job titles, employers, dates worked, and what you actually did in each role. The IRS uses automated systems to screen resumes, so use clear language and include keywords from the job posting. If the posting mentions "tax law," "audit procedures," or "customer service," and you have that experience, say so explicitly in your resume.

If you have a college degree, have your transcript ready — some positions require you to upload it as proof. If you are claiming work experience in place of a degree, you will need to document the exact dates and duties of that work.

The USAJobs application process step by step

Create a free USAJobs account using your email address. You will receive a confirmation email; click the link to activate your account. Log in and click "Create Profile" to fill in your basic information: name, address, phone number, and citizenship status.

Find the IRS job you want and click "Apply." USAJobs will ask you to confirm your profile information and then walk you through a series of questions specific to that job. These questions ask whether you meet the basic requirements — citizenship, security clearance may be able to access, willingness to relocate, and so on. Answer honestly; false answers can disqualify you or result in termination if you are hired.

Upload your resume and any required documents — transcripts, certifications, military discharge papers if applicable. Some positions ask you to answer essay questions about your experience. Take time with these; they are often reviewed by a human hiring manager, not just a computer.

Review your entire application before you submit. Once you click "Submit," you cannot edit it. USAJobs will send you a confirmation email with an application number. Save this number; you will need it if you want to check your application status or contact the hiring office.

Common IRS entry-level positions and what they pay

The most common entry-level IRS job is Customer Service Representative, which involves answering taxpayer questions by phone or email. These positions typically start at GS-4 or GS-5, which pays roughly $28,000 to $35,000 per year depending on your location and step within the grade. You usually need a high school diploma and no prior experience.

Tax Examiner positions require you to review tax returns, identify discrepancies, and correspond with taxpayers. These start at GS-5 or GS-7, paying $35,000 to $50,000 annually. Most require either a high school diploma plus three years of work experience, or a college degree with no experience required.

Revenue Agent is a mid-level position that involves conducting field audits and investigating tax compliance. These typically start at GS-7 or GS-9, paying $50,000 to $65,000 per year. Revenue Agent positions usually require a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.

Salary varies by location; positions in high-cost areas like New York City or San Francisco pay more than positions in rural areas. The USAJobs posting for each job shows the exact salary range for that location and grade level.

After you submit your application

USAJobs will show your application status as "Received," "Under Review," "Referred," "Interview," or "Hired." You can check this status anytime by logging into your USAJobs account and viewing your application history. The hiring office will not call you until they are ready to schedule an interview, which can take anywhere from two weeks to three months.

If you are referred to the hiring office, you may be contacted for a phone screening or in-person interview. Prepare by reviewing the job posting again and thinking of specific examples from your work history that show you can do the job. Interviews often include questions about how you handle stress, work with others, and solve problems.

If you are hired, you will receive a formal job offer letter through USAJobs. This letter includes your start date, salary, location, and any conditions — such as passing a medical exam or security clearance. You typically have five to ten business days to accept or decline the offer.

Requirements you must meet to be hired

You must be a U.S. citizen or national. You must have a valid Social Security number. You must pass a background investigation, which includes a criminal history check and verification of your employment history and education. Some positions require a Top Secret security clearance, which involves an extensive background check and can take six months or longer.

You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). You must be able to work in the United States legally. If you have a felony conviction, you may still be hired depending on the nature of the crime and how long ago it occurred — the IRS evaluates each case individually.

You must be willing to submit to a drug test and medical exam. You must be able to obtain and maintain any required security clearances. If a position requires you to relocate and you decline, you will not be hired for that position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a college degree to work for the IRS?

No. Many entry-level positions require only a high school diploma and relevant work experience. Customer Service Representative and some Tax Examiner positions accept applicants with a diploma and three to five years of work history. However, a college degree can help you start at a higher grade level and may have access to for more positions.

How long does it take to hear back after I apply?

The hiring timeline varies. You may see your application status change to "Referred" within two to four weeks. If you are referred, the hiring office may contact you for an interview within another two to six weeks. The entire process from application to job offer typically takes three to six months, though some positions move faster or slower.

Can I apply for multiple IRS positions at the same time?

Yes. You can submit applications to different IRS positions, different locations, or both. Each application is reviewed separately. If you are offered multiple positions, you can choose which one to accept. There is no penalty for applying to many positions.

What if I have a criminal record?

The IRS evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Felonies, misdemeanors, and other convictions do not automatically disqualify you, but they are investigated during the background check. Be honest about your history on the application. Lying about a criminal record will disqualify you and may result in criminal charges.

Is there a way to apply without using USAJobs?

No. USAJobs is the only official channel for IRS hiring. If someone tells you they can get you an IRS job through a different method or for a fee, they are running a scam. The IRS does not hire through private recruiters, and you should never pay money to apply for a federal job.