Particle.news

Download on the App Store

IRS Cuts 25% of Workforce, Shuts Down Civil Rights Office

The Trump administration's cost-cutting initiative reduces the IRS workforce by 20,000, raising concerns of operational strain and $500 billion in lost tax revenue.

Image
FILE - A sign for the Internal Revenue Service building in Washington, on May 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
Image
People hold signs at a rally supporting federal workers outside the IRS regional office Saturday, March 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Overview

  • The Internal Revenue Service is eliminating 25% of its workforce, approximately 20,000 jobs, as part of President Trump's Workforce Optimization Initiative.
  • The agency has closed its Office of Civil Rights and Compliance, laying off 130 employees tasked with protecting taxpayers from discrimination.
  • Treasury officials project over $500 billion in lost federal tax revenue by the April 15 filing deadline due to weakened enforcement capabilities.
  • The layoffs coincide with the tax filing season, sparking concerns about delays in refunds and diminished customer service for taxpayers.
  • Some previously laid-off probationary employees are being reinstated under court orders, though broader operational disruptions persist.