Charles P. Rettig

Charles P. Rettig is the 49th Commissioner of the IRS. As Commissioner, Mr. Rettig presides over the nation’s tax system, which collects more than $4.1 trillion in tax revenue each year representing about 96% of the total gross receipts of the United States. In this regard, since this revenue funds most government operations and public services, the continued success of our country depends upon a successful IRS. Mr. Rettig manages an agency of about 80,000 employees and a budget of more than $12 billion.

In leading the IRS, Mr. Rettig has worked to focus attention on the important work of the agency’s employees. “The IRS employees are the absolute strength of the agency,” he notes. “We are proud to be reflective of the diverse communities we serve. Our employees are dedicated and they care a lot, for both taxpayers and the nation.” Since joining the IRS, Mr. Rettig has also been heavily focused on improving service to the nation’s taxpayers, balancing appropriate enforcement of the nation’s tax laws while respecting taxpayer rights, with a particular focus on traditionally underserved communities. Subject to budgetary appropriations, the IRS maintains a strong, visible, robust tax enforcement presence in support of those who voluntarily comply with their filing and reporting requirements. Mr. Rettig has been leading efforts to enhance taxpayer experiences operating “through the eyes of the taxpayer.” These efforts include implementation of the multi-year IRS Integrated Modernization Plan and the Taxpayer First Act.

Mr. Rettig has held leadership roles in a number of professional organizations, most recently serving as Vice Chair-Administration, for the American Bar Association’s Section of Taxation, and President of the American College of Tax Counsel. He was a member of the IRS Advisory Council (IRSAC) and served as IRSAC’s chair from 2010 to 2011. He also served as Chair of the Taxation Section of the State Bar of California and has served on the advisory boards of both the Franchise Tax Board and the Board of Equalization in his home state of California.

He received a B.A. in Economics from the University of California at Los Angeles, as well as a J.D. with honors from Pepperdine University and an LL.M. in taxation from New York University.