The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that its Whistleblower Program has recovered over $8 billion since its inception in 2007, with more than $1.4 billion paid in awards. This announcement comes as the IRS prepares to observe National Whistleblower Day on July 30, recognizing the vital role whistleblowers play in exposing fraud and strengthening tax compliance.
IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano emphasized the historical significance of whistleblowers, stating, “Historically whistleblowers have played an essential role in tax administration by calling attention to problems others have overlooked.” Erick Martinez, acting director of the IRS Whistleblower Office, added, “Their efforts make our tax system stronger by exposing wrongdoing and deterring bad actors.”
The program has seen recent enhancements, including the launch of Digital Form 211 for submitting claims via phone or laptop, and a streamlined online reporting tool at IRS.gov/SubmitATip. The IRS Whistleblower Office also continues to expand its Whistleblower Alert initiative, highlighting emerging abusive tax schemes, and collaborates with international programs, such as assisting UK tax authorities.
The IRS encourages individuals with specific, timely, significant, and credible information about tax noncompliance to submit their information, as they may be eligible for a monetary award if it leads to the collection of taxes or other proceeds.