A statement from the Commissioner of the International Revenue Service (IRS), John Koskinen, supporting the work of the Whistleblower Office, has suggested the Whistleblower program will become a key tool in the IRS’ effort in combating offshore tax evasion.

In his statement, Koskinen said: “Looking to the future, the IRS must do everything possible to strengthen the Whistleblower Program and build on the progress already made in implementing the law, while remaining mindful of the need to protect taxpayer rights. I am committed to expanding the program’s reach and improving communications with existing and potential whistleblowers.”

Whistleblower Office

Established in 2007, the IRS Whistleblower Office was a response to amendments to the legal authority for paying awards to individuals who report suspected tax compliance issues and since that time has been vital in improving tax administration. The program compensates whistleblowers, in accordance with the law, for the provision of information which helps the IRS to detect tax compliance issues and identify those who are evading their US tax obligations.

Since its establishment, thousands of whistleblowers have reported hundreds of millions of dollars in suspected tax compliance issues. Over the last three fiscal years alone, the IRS has paid out more than $186 million in awards, on the collection of more than $1 billion in taxes, based on information provided by whistleblowers.

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