The federal government just signed a new data-sharing agreement that puts immigrant communities directly in harm’s way.

On April 8, 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) allowing ICE to access private taxpayer information. The IRS, an agency once thought to be insulated from immigration enforcement, is now giving ICE a back door into immigrant homes, families, and futures.

This is a betrayal.

For years, our immigrant communities, many without status, have filed taxes, paid into systems they are shut out of, and done so with the understanding that this information would not be weaponized against them. This agreement tears at that trust and makes clear that the federal government is once again choosing to invest in policing, surveillance, and deportation instead of justice and dignity.

And while the administration frames this agreement as “limited,” we’ve seen this playbook before. Vague language and closed-door deals always lead to overreach and abuse. Our communities deserve transparency and safety, not secretive agreements that feed Trump’s deportation machine.

At Innovation Law Lab, we are grounded in truth, not fear. We are committed to making sure our communities know what’s happening, what it means, and how to protect themselves. We urge anyone with concerns to connect with trusted immigration attorneys or local legal service providers. And we demand this administration halt any data-sharing with ICE and dismantle this harmful agreement.

Our communities deserve better.

What You Need to Know About the ICE–IRS Agreement

1. Did the IRS really agree to share data with ICE?

Yes. The IRS and ICE signed an agreement that allows ICE to request personal tax information as part of certain criminal investigations. That includes things like home addresses, ITINs, and financial records.

2. Does this mean ICE can see everyone’s taxes?

Not automatically. ICE has to make a request to the IRS, and the IRS has to approve it. But the agreement is vague and doesn’t give clear rules about when or how this information will be shared. That’s exactly what makes it dangerous.

3. When did this start?

The agreement went into effect on April 8, 2024. However, legal challenges are already underway and may delay or stop parts of this agreement’s implementation so it is important to stay connected and informed.

4. Is it still safe to file taxes?

It depends. There are risks, but also important benefits. If you have a pending immigration case, you are likely not sharing new information with the government by filing taxes. But if you don’t have status or a pending immigration case, and you have had past contact with immigration enforcement or criminal charges, the risk may be higher.

5. What are the risks?

ICE could use updated tax information, like your current address, to find and target people for arrest or detention. This is especially risky for folks who have no immigration status and no pending immigration case, or who have prior issues in their immigration history.

6. Are there any benefits to filing taxes right now?

Yes. Filing taxes can:

• Show good moral character (which is important for many immigration cases)
• Qualify you for refunds or tax credits
• Help you avoid legal trouble for not filing

You may want to talk to a legal service provider about your specific case before filing your taxes. Again, people who have an active immigration case (like pending removal proceedings or an application for benefits) will likely not be providing any new information to the government when filing for taxes.

7. What should I do right now?

• Stay calm. This change does not mean ICE has instant access to your tax return.
• Get legal advice. Contact an immigration attorney or trusted legal aid provider.
• Stay connected. Follow updates from trusted immigrant rights organizations. 

8. Is this agreement legal?

The legality of the agreement is being challenged. Lawyers and advocacy groups are already fighting back in court. We believe this agreement is a violation of public trust and will continue to push for its reversal.

9. Where can I get immigration legal help?

• If you are in Oregon, call the Equity Corps of Oregon (ECO), the state’s universal legal representation program for immigrants, at 1-888-274-7292. Our statewide call center is open from Monday to Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm. 

You are not alone. We are in this fight together and we will keep showing up for each other.