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Resources for Tax Professionals Amid IRS Furloughs, Layoffs

October 10, 2025

As the federal government shutdown continues, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that approximately 46% of its employees have been furloughed under the agency’s updated contingency plan, as well as ongoing reduction-in-force notices and layoffs. 

While the IRS is retaining remaining workforce to maintain essential operations, this reduction in staffing is expected to create challenges for both taxpayers and practitioners as filing season approaches.

What’s in the IRS Contingency Plan

According to the IRS’s revised plan, the agency is prioritizing resources to continue critical functions such as:

  • Issuing tax guidance related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21/H.R. 1)
  • Protecting government property and data
  • Supporting ongoing enforcement and collection activities.

However, with nearly half of its employees furloughed, there is growing concern that routine taxpayer services, return processing, and call center support may experience significant delays.

The IRS’s ability to respond to inquiries, process refunds, and provide timely guidance could be limited for the duration of the shutdown—potentially impacting both individual taxpayers and tax professionals finalizing preparation for the 2024 filing season.

Resources for Tax Professionals

For the most up-to-date information on IRS operations, practitioner guidance, and shutdown-related developments, we encourage members to review the following resources:

These resources offer valuable insights into how the shutdown is affecting federal tax operations and what practitioners can do to prepare and support their clients.

Ongoing Advocacy

The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), OSCPA, and other state CPA societies are continuing communications with the IRS, noting prolonged furloughs can lead to larger backlogs of unprocessed returns and correspondence, increased hardship for taxpayers, and added pressure on practitioners who must comply with complex and evolving tax requirements.

We are closely monitoring developments and stand ready to support Oklahoma CPAs and taxpayers should additional relief measures become necessary. If the shutdown continues, the OSCPA and our national partners may advocate for shutdown-related relief—including penalty and deadline considerations for affected taxpayers and preparers.

Looking Ahead

The OSCPA will continue to monitor federal developments and share updates as they become available. Our priority remains ensuring that members have timely access to accurate information, practical guidance, and support as the situation evolves.

Members are encouraged to stay engaged, communicate proactively with clients about potential IRS delays, and document any disruptions or challenges related to the shutdown.

We understand how crucial a well-functioning IRS is to both compliance and confidence in the tax system. We are committed to keeping our members informed and advocating for a fully operational and responsive IRS on behalf of taxpayers and practitioners alike.