Trump Administration Offers Federal Workers Buyouts to Downsize Agencies

The Department of Education and SEC initiate voluntary separation programs as part of a broader federal workforce reduction effort.

The U.S. Department of Education offered eligible employees up to $25,000 to resign or retire, with a midnight deadline on March 3, 2025, to accept the offer.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced a similar program, offering $50,000 to employees who voluntarily separate by April 4, 2025.
Both efforts are part of a Trump administration initiative led by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to significantly reduce the federal workforce.
The Department of Education has already canceled nearly $1 billion in contracts and grants, including diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and is preparing for further staff reductions.
Linda McMahon was sworn in as Secretary of Education and is tasked with overseeing the department's downsizing, aligning with President Trump's long-term goal of returning education oversight to the states.