The IRS is reportedly preparing to lay off thousands of probationary workers in the midst of tax season, with some sources indicating that these cuts could take effect as soon as next week. This decision comes as part of a broader push by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal workforce by eliminating probationary employees who have not yet received civil service protections.
Previously, the administration had rolled out a deferred resignation program offering buyouts to nearly all federal employees as a way to rapidly shrink the workforce. However, IRS employees critical to the 2025 tax season have been informed via recent communications that they cannot accept these buyout offers until after the filing deadline, leaving many in uncertain positions about their future.
The exact number of workers who will be affected by these layoffs remains unclear, as representatives from both the Treasury and the IRS have not provided further comments. With the 2025 tax season having officially started on January 27 and expectations of over 140 million tax returns by the April 15 deadline, the timing of these layoffs is stirring concern among those involved.
At the same time, the Biden administration has significantly bolstered the IRS with an $80 billion investment through the Inflation Reduction Act, a move aimed at enhancing customer service, enforcement capabilities, and technological updates within the agency. In contrast, Republicans have managed to reclaim some of these funds by advocating for cuts to federal spending and downsizing the government.
In a related development, proposals for drastic government restructuring by figures such as Elon Musk are facing legal challenges from attorneys general representing 14 states. The lawsuit argues that the power to make such sweeping changes should be confined to officials who are nominated and confirmed by the Senate, emphasizing constitutional provisions that delineate the authority of Congress and the president.
7 Comments
Matzomaster
If you’re going to invest billions in the IRS, you need a team that’s truly committed; a little pruning can lead to long-term gains.
Rotfront
This is nothing more than a budget-cutting stunt executed without any real regard for taxpayer service.
Karamba
It feels like the administration is playing games with people’s livelihoods for political gains.
Loubianka
Downsizing during the busiest period is a recipe for disaster; it undermines trust in our tax system.
BuggaBoom
The lack of clear information on how many employees will be lost only adds to the uncertainty and worry.
Muchacho
How can anyone justify risking errors and delays when millions of tax returns are due? It’s irresponsible.
Comandante
The timing is abysmal—why trim the workforce when the agency is already overwhelmed?