IRS layoffs could affect filing and refunds

The IRS has laid off over 6,000 workers, primarily probationary employees, raising concerns about tax processing delays as the April 15 deadline nears.

(CNN)-The IRS has laid off over 6,000 workers, primarily probationary employees, raising concerns about tax processing delays as the April 15 deadline nears.  Representative John Garamendi (D-CA) criticized the move, stating, “Going after the Internal Revenue Service and firing people just ahead of tax season—it’s crazy.” The National Treasury Employees Union warns of disruptions in tax processing, customer service, and refund issuance. Daniel Scharpenburg, 1st Vice President of NTEU Chapter 66, remarked, “I feel like a grenade is being used when a scalpel would be appropriate.”

The Trump administration, has defended the cuts as part of a broader economic strategy. In a recent Fox News interview, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick outlined an ambitious vision for tax reform, stating, “We mean great as in no deficit and basically try to eliminate the Internal Revenue Service and our taxes.” This statement has fueled speculation that the administration is pushing for a overhaul of the nation’s tax system.

With fewer IRS workers available, taxpayers seeking assistance may face longer wait times, and experts warn that processing delays could lead to late refunds. Liv Alvarado, a recently laid-off IRS employee, voiced concerns about the agency’s capacity to manage tax season efficiently. “There’s going to be even fewer workers here now. Stuff’s going to take even longer,” she said. With tax season underway, millions of Americans will soon feel the effects of the decision.