when I've had interactions with IRS & ATF people, they've been really helpful in answering questions and offering advice on how to address situations

This is a great point. I appreciate the reminder.

I’ve been super stressed regarding these matters. Though as I just moved back to Canada this year - I had to call the CRA (Canadian IRS equivalent) to notify them I was back after 5 years as a non-resident, and despite the stress I had about even just making the call, the guy I spoke to seemed very nice and helpful.

I’m grateful for your pointing this out in the midst of all the antagonism towards the government to refocus on the fact that the actual people working at the CRA/IRS may not be bad guys after all - relieves some of the worry about possible audits, knowing it could happen with employees who are there to serve pleasantly as that guy on the phone did. :-)