The IRS will furlough nearly half of its workforce as the government shutdown continues.
The tax agency said around 34,000 IRS workers will be furloughed, while another 39,870 employees, representing 53.6% of the workforce, will remain on the job.
Thai comes as the federal government shutdown enters its eighth day, as Democrats and Republicans still can’t come to an agreement.
“An IRS-wide furlough began on October 8, 2025, for everyone except already-identified excepted and exempt employees,” the message said.
“Employees who are not exempt or excepted are furloughed and placed in a non-pay and non-duty status until further notice; however, all employees should plan to report to work for their next tour of duty.”
Forloughed IRS employees have been informed that they will receive back pay when the shutdown ends in a letter. The letter came a day after the internal draft memo that suggested the Trump administration might question its obligation to give back pay to some furloughed employees.
The IRS was already dealing with mass layoffs implemented when Trump entered the White House in January, which reduced its workforce by about 25%. From around 100,000 to 75,000.
