Internet Searches For Scheduled Tax Refund Payments Surge After Trump Floats Gutting the IRS

Searches for the IRS' schedule for tax refunds have increased after President Donald Trump discussed carrying out massive layoffs at the agency, a move that could potentially impact millions of taxpayers expected to file their returns in the coming weeks.

CNBC reported that thousands of agency employees are expected to lose their jobs as Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) sets its sights on it as it continues its crusade to reduce government spending. It is the completion of a Republican-led offensive that began when former President Joe Biden approved $80 billion for the IRS through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in 2022.

Probationary workers with less than a year in their posts have been mostly targeted by the layoffs. The outlet explained that there were some 15,000 such employees at the agency, many hired through IRA funds, with a bit less than half expected to be laid off.

Experts interviewed by different outlets said the IRS will likely be effectively impacted by the layoffs, and recommended filing "accurate, electronic returns" to avoid inconveniences. Incorrect ones, however, could take longer to be returned as reduced staffing could make processing times longer. Those expecting returns are encouraged to make their filings as soon as possible.