IRS Workforce Reduction Affects Tax Season Performance in El Paso

The IRS has seen a significant decrease in its workforce, dropping from approximately 102,000 employees at the start of 2025 to around 74,000 by the end of the tax season. This reduction, driven by the Department of Government Efficiency, has raised concerns about the agency's ability to handle taxpayer inquiries effectively. While the IRS performed better than anticipated in processing returns, the sharp decline in staff has led to challenges, particularly in phone support for taxpayers. El Paso residents may experience longer wait times and reduced assistance during tax-related inquiries.