Tax Compliance Internship

About the role

This is a non-merit internship position in the Iowa Department of Revenue’s Tax Compliance Division. Interns will assist individuals and businesses in understanding and meeting their tax obligations. The division oversees tax processing, business permits, and alcohol regulation across Iowa, handling receipt of tax returns and payments, audits and collections, compliance inspections, and regulatory verification of alcohol-licensed establishments. The role focuses on upholding, enforcing, and educating taxpayers and licensees on Iowa’s tax laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Examine tax returns and related documents to determine completeness, accuracy, and compliance with specific tax laws and regulations
• Correspond with taxpayers and field staff to address discrepancies or incomplete items
• Compute tax, interest, and penalties on current and delinquent accounts
• Consult with taxpayers; respond to questions and explain applicable rules and regulations
• Issue billing request notices, refund requests, liens, and releases from tax liability obligations
• Identify individuals who are delinquent on submitting tax returns and payments

Schedule

• Part-time during the semester: approximately 12–16 hours per week
• Full-time during summer or semester break: approximately 40 hours per week

Location

Interns must attend onboarding and initial training at the Hoover State Office Building, located on the State Capitol Complex in Des Moines. Remote work may be an option after the training period if specific qualifications are met.

About the Department of Revenue

The Iowa Department of Revenue’s mission is to serve Iowans through the responsible collection and generation of revenue to support the public good. The department values its employees and customers.

Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled students in a degree program at an accredited educational institution, as determined by the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise
• Must live within the State of Iowa

Background check

A background check, including a criminal history check, fingerprinting, and Iowa tax filing check, will be conducted on the final candidate.