FAQ
Tax Examiner FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a tax examiner.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a tax examiner: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about tax examiners
Do tax examiners need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s, often in accounting.
Is the field growing?
BLS projects a slight decline, with openings from retirements.
Who employs them?
The IRS and state and local revenue agencies.
How much does a tax examiner make?
The median annual wage for tax examiners was $62,370 ($29.98 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $42,000 and the highest 10% earned more than $114,550.
How long does it take to become a tax examiner?
Most people need about 4 years + agency training of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical, often in accounting or a related field, plus agency training.
Do you need a degree to be a tax examiner?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is tax examiner a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -1.0% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 4,400 openings each year. Upsides include stable government jobs; a common challenge is that employment projected to decline.
What skills does a tax examiner need?
Key technical skills include tax law, accounting, auditing, and financial analysis. Employers also value integrity, attention to detail, and communication.
What certifications are available for tax examiners?
Common credentials include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Enrolled Agent (EA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Agency training programs. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Tax Examiner fit quiz, compare with Accountant, or explore Tax Examiner training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-2081 (Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.