1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support increased funding for the Internal Revenue Service in the upcoming federal budget. A fully funded, modern IRS is essential for ensuring fairness in our tax system, improving taxpayer services, and securing the necessary revenue to fund public services. For too long, budget constraints have crippled the IRS’s ability to operate efficiently. Chronic underfunding has led to massive backlogs, inadequate customer service for honest taxpayers, and a significant drop in audits for high-income earners and complex corporations. By increasing funding, Congress can empower the IRS to modernize its aging IT infrastructure, which will reduce paper-based delays and make online tools more secure and accessible. Furthermore, strengthening the IRS directly combats the tax gap. Increased enforcement resources enable the agency to target tax evasion, fraud, and non-compliance, ensuring that everyone plays by the same rules. Research suggests that increased investment in the IRS yields a high return, with audit compliance on high-income, non-compliant tax returns providing substantial revenue. Adequate funding also ensures better service for taxpayers. Improved staffing will allow the IRS to answer more phone calls, resolve cases faster, and provide better assistance to vulnerable populations, including those relying on Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs. Investing in the IRS is not just about revenue; it is about creating a fair, functional, and modern government agency that supports all Americans. I urge you to prioritize increased, sustained funding for the IRS to enhance taxpayer services and ensure equitable compliance.