The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is recognizing National Whistleblower Day on July 30, highlighting the crucial role whistleblowers play in combating fraud and strengthening tax compliance, with over $8 billion recovered since the program's 2007 inception.
Since its establishment, the IRS Whistleblower program has led to the collection of more than $8 billion and the payment of over $1.4 billion in awards to individuals providing valuable information. IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said, "Historically whistleblowers have played an essential role in tax administration by calling attention to problems others have overlooked." Acting director Erick Martinez added that their efforts "make our tax system stronger by exposing wrongdoing and deterring bad actors."
The IRS has enhanced its whistleblower program by launching a digital Form 211 for easier claim submission and a streamlined online reporting tool at IRS.gov/SubmitATip. The agency also expanded its Whistleblower Alert initiative to highlight abusive tax schemes and improved collaboration with various stakeholders, including international tax authorities.
The IRS encourages individuals with specific, timely, and credible information about tax noncompliance to come forward, as they may be eligible for a monetary award.