IRS Modernization

 

IRS Modernization Plan

In 2019, the IRS released a multi-year IRS Modernization Plan PDF that includes dozens of initiatives to improve how the agency interacts with taxpayers and the tax community while continuing to strengthen cybersecurity protections and information technology systems. The initiatives will enhance taxpayer service and enforcement activities over the next several years.

The plan provides a six-year strategy to modernize IRS Information technology systems and build critical infrastructure needed for the future of the nation’s tax system.

IRS identified four “Modernization Pillars” that reflect the scope of the agency’s mission and future development needs. Over time, the IRS plans to include new initiatives based on emerging priorities and advances in technology, consistent with the broad outlines of the modernization pillars and input from partners in the tax community.

Taxpayer Experience

The IRS will expand digital options, improve traditional channels, and provide simplified and proactive services for taxpayers and their representatives.

Core Taxpayer Services and Enforcement

Tax experience relies upon integrated case management, account management, and real time tax processing so that employees and taxpayers have a complete view of their interactions and history, regardless of the channel or the employee assigned.

Modernized IRS Operations

The IRS will use innovative technologies and processes, such as Cloud, Agile, DevOps, Application Programming Interfaces, robotic process automation, and next generation infrastructure to reduce costs and manual effort.

Cybersecurity & Data Protection

The IRS will protect taxpayer data using advanced analytics and tools, and align to government-wide cybersecurity standards and priorities

Modernization Milestones

The IRS Structure and Mission

The IRS structure is organized around major customer segments instead of IRS processes. For information on the IRS's organizational structure, see Today's IRS Organization.

Taxpayer rights were considerably expanded in the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998. To accomplish these objectives, the IRS developed a new mission statement and a set of guiding principles by which the IRS conducts its tax administration activities.