Salem, Oregon – The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has begun major workforce reductions and IRS office closures nationwide, eliminating approximately 6,000 IRS positions.
IRS Offices Shutting Down Amid Workforce Cuts
DOGE’s cost-cutting measures are part of the Trump administration’s broader effort to reduce government spending. However, these sudden changes raise concerns over tax service delays just as Americans prepare to file their returns.
IRS Offices Closed & Annual Lease Costs:
- Lowell, Massachusetts – $1,189,592
- Hilo, Hawaii – $70,396
- Brattleboro, Vermont – $41,238
- Salem, Oregon – $262,927
- Idaho Falls, Idaho – $52,743
- Bend, Oregon – $192,066
- Sioux City, Iowa – $104,186
- Beaumont, Texas – $115,076
- Knoxville, Tennessee – $69,357
Impact on Taxpayers & Government Services
Timing Issue: The closures come just as tax season begins, making filing refunds and resolving tax issues more difficult.
Senator Ron Wyden’s Warning:
“DOGE is now at the IRS. That means [department chief Elon] Musk’s henchmen are in a position to dig through a trove of data about every taxpayer in America. And if your refund is delayed, they could very well be the reason.”
Key Concerns:
- Privacy risks: The potential access to taxpayer data
- Delays in refunds and tax-related assistance
- Loss of jobs and local tax support offices
Why Is DOGE Closing IRS Offices?
Trump Administration’s Cost-Cutting Strategy
- IRS office leases terminated to save money
- “Wall of Receipts” transparency tool tracking eliminated government spending
- Claimed goal: Increase efficiency in tax collection
DOGE officials insist that these actions are necessary to streamline government spending, but critics argue they may disrupt essential services.
