Is a Career as a Tax Auditor Right for You? Job Scope, Skills & What to Expect

Wondering if tax auditing is the right fit for you? Discover what a tax auditor really does in Malaysia, from key responsibilities to required skills, and see if you’ve got what it takes to succeed in this career.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-04-08 at 2:51 AM

Updated on 2025-04-08 at 2:51 AM

If you're someone who enjoys structure, precision, and solving financial puzzles, a career in tax auditing might be exactly what you're looking for.

As Malaysia continues to tighten its tax regulations and increase corporate transparency, the demand for qualified tax auditors continues to rise.

But what does the job actually involve? And is it the right career path for your personality and skill set?

Let’s break it down.

What Does a Tax Auditor Do?

A tax auditor is responsible for examining financial records to ensure companies and individuals are complying with tax laws. This includes:

• Reviewing income statements, expense records, and tax filings
• Identifying discrepancies or potential fraud
• Ensuring accurate reporting of income, deductions, and exemptions
• Communicating with taxpayers and authorities to resolve issues
• Staying up to date with Malaysia’s latest tax laws and regulations

You may be working with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN), government agencies, or in the internal tax departments of corporations and audit firms.

What Skills Do You Need as a Tax Auditor?

Tax auditing requires a sharp eye for detail and a strong grasp of numbers—but also communication skills to explain your findings clearly and professionally.

Here’s what helps you thrive:

• Accounting & Tax Knowledge – Especially Malaysia’s tax laws and financial reporting standards (e.g., MPERS, MFRS)
• Analytical Thinking – Spotting inconsistencies and understanding financial patterns
• Excel & Accounting Software Skills – Tools like SQL, CaseWare, or SAP are often used
• Time Management – Meeting strict deadlines during audit seasons
• Ethics & Integrity – You’ll be working with sensitive financial data

Qualifications to Become a Tax Auditor in Malaysia

You’ll generally need:

• A degree in Accounting, Finance, or Taxation
• Knowledge of Malaysia’s Income Tax Act 1967
• Professional certifications such as ACCA, CPA, ICAEW, or CTIM will give you an edge
• For government roles (like LHDN), passing civil service exams may be required

Pros and Cons of Being a Tax Auditor

✅ Pros:

• Job Stability – Every company needs to stay compliant with taxes
• Career Progression – Clear paths to senior roles or tax consultancy
• High Demand – Especially during peak tax seasons
• Exposure – You’ll learn how various industries manage finances

⚠️ Challenges:

• Repetitive Work – Can be detail-heavy and routine
• Tight Deadlines – Especially around tax submission periods
• Client Pressure – Especially when uncovering non-compliance

Is This Career the Right Fit for You?

A career as a tax auditor may suit you if:

✔️ You enjoy working with numbers and analysing financial data
✔️ You’re detail-oriented and methodical
✔️ You’re comfortable with structured processes and deadlines
✔️ You have strong integrity and accountability

Curious about your ideal work environment? Try the Hiredly Work Personality Test to discover if tax auditing aligns with your personality and career strengths.

Explore finance and accounting jobs on Hiredly, join our Young Talent Community for updates, and take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to find out if this role suits your strengths. Your career in tax auditing could start right here.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-04-08 at 2:51 AM