IRS marks National Whistleblower Day
The Internal Revenue Service will mark National Whistleblower Day on July 30 to acknowledge the contributions of individuals who expose tax fraud and improve compliance.
The day honors the nation’s first whistleblower law, enacted in 1778, and recognizes those who report misconduct to protect public funds.
The IRS whistleblower program, created in 2007, has recovered over $8 billion in unpaid taxes and awarded more than $1.4 billion to whistleblowers. These tips have helped uncover noncompliance, support enforcement actions, and maintain fairness for taxpayers who follow the rules.
Digital tools expand reporting options
The agency has rolled out new digital tools to streamline submissions. Form 211, the Application for Award for Original Information, can now be completed online using a phone or laptop. Since the update, submission rates have hit record highs.
A centralized online reporting tool at IRS.gov/submitatip offers step-by-step instructions for reporting fraud and scams. It also explains how to upload supporting documents.
Related: Mamdani backs pied-à-terre tax notices
The IRS Whistleblower Office has broadened its Whistleblower Alert initiative, which outlines current abusive tax schemes. The program assists individuals in spotting and reporting suspicious activity by detailing the latest threats.
Partnerships have grown as well. The agency collaborates with whistleblowers, tax professionals, advocacy organizations, and international programs, including the U.K. tax authority’s similar effort.
Agency emphasizes value of credible tips
“Historically whistleblowers have played an essential role in tax administration by calling attention to problems others have overlooked,” IRS CEO Frank Bisignano said in a statement on July 28. “Information provided by whistleblowers helps the IRS identify noncompliance, pursue enforcement actions, and ensure fairness for taxpayers who follow the law.”
The IRS urges individuals with reliable information about tax violations to step forward. It prioritizes submissions that are detailed, recent, substantial, and well-supported. Whistleblowers may receive a financial award if their tip results in the collection of taxes or other funds.
Erick Martinez, acting director of the IRS Whistleblower Office, described the day as a chance to thank those who come forward. “Their work strengthens the tax system by exposing misconduct and discouraging wrongdoers,” he said. “Tips provide information the IRS might otherwise miss, potentially increasing revenue and improving compliance.”
Related: Pension funds see impact from stewardship efforts
Online portals now handle most tips in federal programs, replacing paper forms and in-person filings. The shift has cut processing times and increased accessibility, especially for those in remote areas or seeking anonymity.
The agency has not disclosed how many tips lead to enforcement, but the $8 billion recovered since 2007 indicates strong results. Its focus on new threats, like cryptocurrency tax evasion and offshore account abuses, shows the program’s ability to evolve.
For now, the IRS plans to enhance the whistleblower experience. Possible updates include multilingual support and additional guidance for international filers, though no timeline has been set.
Whistleblowers continue to play a critical role in maintaining tax fairness.
