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This testimony discusses the management challenges that continue to face the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These challenges include (1) computer security, (2) financial management, (3) organizational modernization and performance management, and (4) business systems modernization management. IRS must make progress in all four areas to improve the agency's efficiency and to significantly improve service to taxpayers. IRS has taken important steps in all of these areas, but significant obstacles remain. In the area of computer security, IRS corrected many previously reported weaknesses and is launching a computer security management program that should help it manage its risks in this area. However, serious weaknesses persist that could impair IRS' ability to perform vital functions. In financial management, IRS was able to prepare financial statements this year that received an unqualified opinion. However, this achievement came through the use of substantial, costly, and time-consuming processes to work around IRS' system deficiencies. IRS has reorganized into four taxpayer-focused divisions and has developed a performance management approach consistent with management principles contained in the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act and the Government Performance and Results Act. However, much work remains to be done to complete the foundation and to design and implement business practice changes that will noticeably improve service to taxpayers and IRS' administration of the tax system. Finally, in terms of business systems modernization, IRS has made important progress in developing and implementing fundamental modernization management controls, but considerable work remains.
GAO-01-562T Internal Revenue Service: Progress Continues But Serious Management Challenges Remain
This report is a follow-on to our report on the results of our audit of the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) fiscal year 2000 financial statements. In fiscal year 2000, IRS was able to produce for the first time combined financial statements that were fairly stated in all material respects. This achievement was the result of the dedication and months of efforts of IRS management and staff working around serious systems deficiencies and internal control weaknesses, many of which have plagued IRS since we first began auditing its financial statements in 1992. Although this effort produced reliable financial statement balances, they were reliable only for a single point in time and fell short of addressing the fundamental weaknesses in IRS systems and internal controls. As a result, we gave an unqualified opinion on IRS fiscal year 2000 financial statements but also concluded that IRS did not maintain effective internal controls. We also found two instances of noncompliance with laws and regulations relating to IRS structuring of installment agreements and the timing of the release of tax liens.

The Internal Revenue Service

United States. Congress. House. Committee on Government Reform. Subcommittee on Government Efficiency, Financial Management, and Intergovernmental Relations

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 144


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