IRS launches mobile app with expanded account access

After 15 years as IRS2Go, the IRS’s taxpayer app now offers expanded access to account services under a new name.

The new version, simply titled “IRS,” allows taxpayers to access selected account services and securely view account information and complete a range of self-service tasks from a mobile device.

Users can access available tax records and transcripts, select notices and letters, payment history, account balance information, and identity protection PINs, the IRS said Friday in a news release. Taxpayers also can make payments, check refund and amended return status, and manage certain communication preferences through the app.

“The new IRS app puts more services at taxpayers’ fingertips,” IRS CEO Frank Bisignano said in the news release. The IRS plans to add services and capabilities to the app, he said.

The app replaces IRS2Go, which the IRS launched in 2011. At launch, IRS2Go allowed taxpayers to check the status of refunds, obtain tax information, and connect with the agency through social media.

The IRS emphasized that the app does not replace IRS.gov or existing online account platforms. Taxpayers and practitioners still will need to use IRS.gov to access the full range of individual online account, business tax account, and tax pro account services.

Those using IRS2Go do not need to download a separate application, the IRS said. Users who have automatic updates enabled will receive the IRS app through the normal update process, while new users can download it through the Apple App Store or Google Play.

The IRS also cautioned taxpayers to use only verified IRS links and official app store listings when downloading the app. Users should be wary of look-alike apps and unsolicited messages claiming to provide access to IRS accounts, the IRS said, noting that it does not request sensitive personal or financial information through unsolicited texts or emails.

— To comment on this article or to suggest an idea for another article, contact Martha Waggoner at Martha.Waggoner@aicpa-cima.com.