If you’ve ever tried to call the IRS for help with your tax refund or processing status, you know how challenging it can be to get a live agent on the line.
Unfortunately, that struggle is expected to intensify this year due to the federal hiring freeze mandated under the Trump administration via executive order. Not only will it be harder to get a live agent, it could actually delay the processing and payment of your tax refund.
This directive mandates that no federal civilian positions (e.g. at the IRS) may be filled, and no new positions may be created, with certain exceptions as provided by law. In response to the executive order, the IRS announced the rescission of all job offers with start dates after January 20, 2025. This includes mean agents and help staff brought onboard during tax season.
These staffing constraint may hinder the IRS’s ability to process returns efficiently, resulting in longer wait times for taxpayers anticipating refunds.
Let’s unpack what this means, why it’s happening, and what you can do to navigate the situation.
The Impact of the Federal Hiring Freeze on the IRS
In 2017, the Trump administration instituted a federal hiring freeze as part of its efforts to curb government spending. While the freeze was lifted later that year, its ripple effects have left agencies like the IRS struggling to recover. This policy led to significant understaffing, compounded by a wave of retirements and an increasing volume of taxpayer queries, especially during tax season.
Even though recent efforts (under the Biden administration) were made to modernize systems and add more staff, the IRS is still dealing with a large tax refund backlog. According to the Treasury Department, the agency has fewer employees now than it did a decade ago, despite managing more complex tax laws and a growing population of taxpayers.
With the second Trump term and his new federal hiring freeze executive order signed on Inauguration Day, the next few years will likely continue to be challenging when it comes to getting hold off a live IRS agent, especially during tax season.
For the current tax season the immediate concern is the potential for longer wait times and delays in processing tax returns due to the IRS’s staffing constraints. The reduction in workforce may hinder the agency’s ability to provide timely assistance and process filings efficiently (i.e. refund delays).
Why This Matters to You and What Can You Do?
For taxpayers, this means longer wait times, delayed resolutions for disputes, and fewer opportunities to receive personalized help from live IRS agents. With tax season in full swing, millions of Americans may find themselves frustrated trying to get the assistance they need.
Here are some proactive steps to minimize frustration and get the help you need:
1. Leverage IRS Online Tools
The IRS offers a range of self-service tools on their website. You can check your refund status, set up payment plans, or access transcripts online. These tools are designed to reduce the need for live assistance.
2. File Early and Electronically
Filing your taxes early not only helps you avoid last-minute stress but also gets your return into the system sooner. Filing electronically reduces errors and speeds up the process.
3. Consult a Tax Professional
If your tax situation is complex, consider hiring a tax professional. They often have access to dedicated practitioner hotlines and can resolve issues more efficiently than the average taxpayer.
Just be prepared to pay more than you would if filing with online tax software.
4. Call During Off-Peak Hours
If you need to call the IRS, try reaching them early in the morning or late in the evening when call volumes are typically lower. Be prepared with all your information to make the most of your call.
Ensure you get the agent name and number so you can refer to it in any follow up correspondence.
5. Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)
If you’re facing significant hardship and can’t resolve your tax issues through normal channels, the TAS may be able to help. They are an independent organization within the IRS designed to assist taxpayers in difficult situations.
Have questions or tips on dealing with IRS delays? Share them in the comments below
Will The IRS hire More Agents and Response Improve?
No. The IRS workforce is unlikely to expand any time soon. Trump has ordered that the IRS be subject to an indefinite hiring freeze until his administration determines it is “in the national interest” to resume hiring. At other federal agencies the freeze is only for 90 day
Further, the IRS has stated that the current 85% level of service target could drop to less than 30% in FY 2026 and beyond if additional funding is not received. So fewer agents and even worse service.