IRS Employees Who Took Trump 'Buyout' Ordered to Stay, Work Is Too 'Essential'

IRS employees who accepted a buyout offer from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) during the Trump administration have been instructed to continue working until May 15 due to the essential nature of their roles. The OPM had previously offered these employees eight months of severance pay if they voluntarily left their positions by February 6. However, many employees are now uncertain about the reliability of this offer, as they have been told they must remain in their jobs despite opting for deferred resignation. The OPM's memo acknowledged the importance of IRS employees in fulfilling the agency's mission, which includes processing tax returns and answering taxpayer inquiries. The National Treasury Employees Union has expressed concerns about the trustworthiness of the OPM's offer, emphasizing that the essential services provided by IRS employees are critical to the public. The situation has raised questions about the future of federal employment and the potential for downsizing within the agency.

- IRS employees who accepted a buyout must continue working until May 15.

- The OPM's offer of severance pay has led to uncertainty among employees.

- The National Treasury Employees Union highlights the essential role of IRS workers.

- Concerns have been raised about the reliability of the OPM's deferred resignation offer.

- The situation reflects broader issues regarding federal employment and potential downsizing.