IRS layoffs 2024 will eliminate 7,000 positions starting Thursday as part of Trump administration efforts to shrink federal agencies. The cuts primarily impact probationary employees in compliance roles responsible for ensuring tax code adherence, according to an anonymous source briefed on the plan.
This workforce reduction occurs amid heightened focus on high-wealth tax enforcement. Under Biden-era policies, IRS agents recovered $1.3 billion from wealthy tax evaders in 2023 alone. Experts warn reduced staffing could hinder similar efforts to address the $36 trillion national debt.
Key implications:
- 56% minority and 65% female workforce disproportionately affected
- Department of Homeland Security seeks redirected IRS staff for border operations
- Unclear effects on 2025 tax season processing timelines
Compliance department reductions raise concerns about auditing capacity as DHS Secretary Kristi Noem formally requested IRS worker transfers.
Cross-agency collaboration remains essential for national priorities,states Noem's letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent.
The IRS currently employs 90,000 workers nationwide. While 2024 hiring freezes anticipated cuts, probationary employees expressed frustration given recent assurances about buyout availability post-tax season. White House representatives declined AP requests for comment on potential service disruptions.
