Trump administration and DOGE propose cutting IRS workforce by nearly 20% one month after Tax Day

Trump administration and DOGE propose cutting IRS workforce by nearly 20% one month after Tax Day

The Trump administration, in collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is reportedly planning to reduce the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) workforce by up to 45,000 positions [1]. This move, part of the administration's broader effort to downsize the federal government, comes just one month after Tax Day.

While the details of the layoffs are still emerging, the IRS has already begun implementing reductions. In February 2025, the agency laid off approximately 7,000 probationary employees, and it has offered buyouts to other employees willing to leave voluntarily [1]. However, employees involved in the 2025 tax season have been barred from accepting buyouts until after the April filing deadline.

In addition to layoffs and buyouts, some IRS employees are being reassigned to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assist with immigration enforcement [1]. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem formally requested IRS personnel for this purpose in February 2025.

Critics of the proposed workforce reductions argue that they could significantly impact the IRS's ability to function effectively. Former IRS Commissioner John Koskinen and six other former commissioners have voiced strong opposition to the plan, warning that deep cuts to the IRS workforce would weaken tax collection, enforcement, and audits for taxpayers [1].

It is essential to note that the exact number of positions to be cut and the timeline for these reductions have not been disclosed. Furthermore, the ultimate approval of the workforce reduction plan rests with the White House.

As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the impact of these proposed cuts on the IRS and the broader tax system.

References:
[1] Associated Press. IRS-Workforce-Cuts-Trump-Administration. https://www.foxla.com/news/irs-workforce-cuts-trump-administration