How Will Increased IRS Staffing Affect Americans?

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The Inflation Reduction Act is adding 87,000 IRS agents. With current staffing at 79,000, this more than doubles the IRS roster. This will return IRS personnel numbers to 1990 levels. The argument for the increase is tax enforcement of wealthy individuals and corporations.

The projections and arguments may not hold up when analyzed. How will increasing IRS staffing affect all Americans?

Increases to IRS Staff and Systems Development

The Inflation Reduction Act earmarked $80 billion to fund the IRS staffing increase. According to the H.R. 5376—Inflation Reduction Act, these dollars will go to “taxpayer services and enforcement.” It also will be applied to developing a free direct e-file system and business systems modernization.