Salary
Average Salary: $59,310
Expected Lifetime Earnings: $2,476,000
The tax brackets of the people you audit will most likely be higher than yours in this job, but that's not to say there isn't possibility here. It seems only appropriate that the people who make sure that everyone's paying their fair share get paid a fair wage.
Most IRS agents will begin working for a salary somewhere around $35,000 a year, but a lot depends on your qualifications, experience, and area of expertise. Agents with business degrees or significant experience working high up in the service can expect to earn close to the $100,000 mark, with the average agent salary falling right around $50,000. Senior-level types in charge of offices in large cities can even earn close to $200,000 (source).
The bright side of the salary news is that you'll be working for the government, and government workers often have amazing benefits. We're talking health insurance, savings plans, paid vacation—the works.