IREON Insights: Potential opportunities and benefits to taxpayers from recent IRS cutbacks - by Richard Levychin

Recent budget and staffing reductions at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), particularly under the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiatives in 2025, have reshaped the agency’s operations. With workforce cuts ranging from 11–25% and significant funding rescissions, the IRS faces challenges in maintaining its core functions of tax collection, compliance, and taxpayer support. This article examines the potential opportunities and benefits that may arise from the reduced IRS capacity.

1. Lower Audit Risk for High-Income Taxpayers
The significant reduction in audit staff has led to a sharp decline in audit rates, particularly for high-income individuals and corporations. In fiscal year 2023, the audit rate for taxpayers earning over $10 million was already low at 11%, and further cuts are expected to reduce this further. This presents an opportunity for high-income taxpayers and businesses to adopt more aggressive tax strategies, such as claiming larger deductions or deferring income, with a lower likelihood of IRS scrutiny. Tax advisors may recommend “allowed positions” that carry audit risk but do not require mandatory disclosure, potentially reducing tax liabilities if unchallenged.

2. Increased Likelihood of “No Change” Audit Outcomes
With limited resources, the IRS is closing more audits as “no change” cases, where no adjustments are made due to insufficient staff to thoroughly investigate the cases. This trend benefits taxpayers under audit, particularly those with complex returns, as the IRS may lack the capacity to pursue intricate cases. Taxpayers with skilled tax professionals may see audits resolved quickly or in their favor, saving time and reducing potential tax assessments.

3. Simplified Filing Through Digital Tools
Despite the cutbacks, the IRS continues to invest in digital tools like the Direct File program, which allows eligible taxpayers in participating states to file taxes online for free. This program, if sustained, could reduce reliance on paid tax preparers, saving money for low- and middle-income taxpayers. While funding for this initiative is at risk, its expansion could streamline compliance for tech-savvy taxpayers, offering a cost-effective filing option.

4. Potential for Tax Planning Flexibility
The reduced enforcement capacity creates a window for taxpayers, particularly businesses and high-income individuals, to engage in strategic tax planning. For example, taxpayers may explore opportunities like maximizing deductions, leveraging tax credits, or restructuring income to minimize tax liability. With fewer audits, these strategies may face less scrutiny, provided they remain within legal boundaries.

5. Benefits from Simplified Compliance Processes
The IRS’s push toward automation, despite staffing challenges, could lead to simplified compliance processes for some taxpayers. For instance, enhanced online portals and automated systems for submitting forms or resolving minor issues could reduce the need for direct interaction with IRS staff. Taxpayers comfortable with digital platforms may benefit from faster resolution of routine inquiries, such as checking refund statuses or updating account information.

Broader Implications
The IRS cutbacks have sparked debate about their long-term effects. Proponents of the reductions argue that modernization through AI and automation could improve efficiency, potentially offsetting staffing losses. However, critics warn that the loss of experienced auditors and support staff could lead to significant revenue losses, with estimates suggesting a $350 billion to $2.4 trillion shortfall over a decade. This could increase the federal deficit or necessitate cuts to public programs. Additionally, reduced enforcement may encourage tax evasion among non-compliant taxpayers, further eroding public trust in the tax system’s fairness

Conclusion.
The recent IRS cutbacks present a complex landscape for taxpayers, with significant challenges like reduced customer service, delayed refunds, and privacy concerns. However, they also offer opportunities for high-income taxpayers and businesses to benefit from lower audit risks and strategic tax planning. Digital tools and automation may provide additional benefits, particularly for tech-savvy taxpayers. While these cutbacks may yield short-term advantages for some, the long-term impact on tax revenue and system fairness remains a concern. Taxpayers should stay proactive, leveraging available resources and professional guidance to navigate this evolving environment effectively.

Richard Levychin, CPA, CGMA, is a partner at Galleros Robinson CPAs, Manhattan, N.Y., and a member of IREON.