The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is set to assist immigration officials in locating immigrants who are facing deportation. This marks a significant change in how taxpayer information might be used, especially in light of President Trump’s efforts to increase deportations.
According to sources familiar with the situation, a draft agreement between the IRS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would allow the IRS to confirm whether ICE has the correct addresses for individuals ordered to leave the United States. This information could play a crucial role in deportation efforts.
Many undocumented immigrants file tax returns with the IRS, providing details about their residence, families, jobs, and income. The IRS has long encouraged these individuals to pay taxes, even offering a special identification number for those without Social Security numbers to help them file their returns.
Tax information is typically kept private, as federal law protects against unauthorized disclosure. In the past, IRS officials have pushed back against requests from the Department of Homeland Security to share information about undocumented immigrants, citing legal concerns.
This potential collaboration raises questions about privacy and the use of sensitive taxpayer information in immigration enforcement. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this agreement will be implemented and what it means for the immigrant community.