In every great heist movie, there’s a moment of misdirection. While one part of the crew distracts the guards, the other slips away with the loot.
And lately? It almost feels like the IRS is living out a version of that script. With headlines full of budget cuts, layoffs, and internal chaos—some reports saying up to 25 percent of their workforce could disappear this year—it’s easy to assume the agency is too distracted to notice what’s going on.
But that’s the misdirection. Because just like in the movies, while the noise grabs your attention, the real action is still happening behind the scenes.
The IRS isn’t asleep at the wheel. If you’re under scrutiny or facing penalties, don’t let the chaos fool you into thinking you’re in the clear. The tax “guards” may look busy — but they’re still very much on duty (thanks to automations).
Now, unlike a heist crew, you’re probably not maliciously seeking out ways to get away with skimping on your taxes. But if you’re wrestling with tax debt, unfiled returns, audits, or collection notices, these changes paint a far more concerning picture.
An IRS with less manpower does not mean Mount Vernon taxpayers with less accountability. It means an IRS that is becoming smarter and more efficient with the resources they have.
Still, with audit officers included in the layoffs, it means greater difficulty reaching the IRS. This is where getting an experienced Westchester County pro to take the lead on your behalf is going to be really helpful. There are things I as a tax professional know how to do to reach the IRS faster. I also know the right questions to ask and how to use the online tools available to get answers for you.
Here are a few other things you need to understand about this IRS workforce cut…
1. Fewer human agents does not mean less enforcement. Like I said, an understaffed IRS means a smarter IRS.
Specifically, the agency is leaning heavily into technology, accelerating the use of sophisticated AI and data-matching systems to pinpoint noncompliance with greater speed. This means…
- Notices of overdue payments and unfiled returns still land in your mailbox
- More automated levies on accounts that are long past due
- Significantly fewer opportunities to sit down with a human being to get help with taxes or explain your situation.
If you’re in tax debt, haven’t filed, or generally need help with taxes, the digital dragnet is only tightening. (If you’re in the middle of an audit, I’ll say again, this is where a tax pro’s services come in handy… ahem.)
AI programs such as the Risk-Based Collection Model prioritize debt collection efforts based on your individual risk level. And it flags activities on your tax return that are historically indicative of fraudulent activity (maybe better than a human could). The algorithms involved here are complicated, but factors like payment history, financial stability, account balance size, and even geographic location can trigger these systems to take a closer look at your return.
2. Delays hurt you more than they help.
It’s a natural human tendency to avoid uncomfortable situations. It may seem like slower IRS operations will buy you some breathing room, but interest and penalties continue to accrue relentlessly.
And once the automated enforcement kicks in, it’s often swift and less forgiving than dealing with a live agent who has the discretion to consider your individual circumstances.
Taking proactive steps to help with taxes before the IRS comes knocking is still your strongest hand. It’s often the key to negotiating manageable payment plans, securing penalty relief, or even exploring settlements like an Offer in Compromise.
3. Clean records and clear strategies win.
One constant when tax world is constantly changing: It’s never too late to take control. This looks like 1) filing overdue returns, 2) documenting financial hardships, 3) proactively setting up payment arrangements, and 4) building a paper trail.
The IRS might be operating with a smaller staff, but don’t think for a second that they won’t make sure Uncle Sam gets paid. This new reality demands a strategic and, most importantly, correct approach.
I’ve seen firsthand with many of my Mount Vernon clients how daunting it feels for them to face the IRS. It’s why they come through my doors. When the system seems impenetrable, the language confusing, and the fear of the unknown overwhelming, they look to me to be a guide for them.
If that’s where you are right now, let’s get something scheduled: calendly.com/l-karam/prospect-schedule
I’ll help you understand your options, negotiate with the IRS, resolve back tax issues, stop wage garnishments, and ultimately find peace of mind.
Let’s get you back in control this year.
Always in your corner,
Lynn Karam