BIDEN IS HIRING 87,000 NEW IRS AGENTS — AND THEYRE COMING FOR YOU
The claim that President Biden is hiring 87,000 new IRS agents who are ""coming for you"" has sparked widespread concern and debate.Fueled by social media and amplified by political rhetoric, the narrative paints a picture of an aggressive IRS poised to unleash a barrage of audits on ordinary Americans. The Internal Revenue Service is hiring a fleet of new agents. And they re probably coming for you regardless of your income level. Biden is hiring 87,000But is this fear-mongering justified?The reality, as is often the case, is more nuanced. About $45.6 billion of that IRS funding will be put toward expenses for IRS tax enforcement services through September 2025, including hiring more employees. But the legislation does not mention that the agency will hire 87,000 new agents specifically tasked with audits and the U.S. Department of the Treasury says these claims are false.The genesis of this claim lies in the **Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)**, which allocated significant funding to the IRS.This funding, totaling nearly $80 billion, wasn't solely intended for hiring auditors to target middle-class citizens. The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law this month by President Joe Biden, empowers the IRS with nearly $80 billion in new funds. The world s most powerful tax collection agency is usingRather, a substantial portion is earmarked for upgrading outdated technology, improving customer service, and addressing a growing backlog of unprocessed tax returns. The so-called Inflation Reduction Act is supposed to fund the hiring of 87,000 new IRS agents and add nearly $79 billion to the IRS, a vast $45 billion of which is being directed solely into IRSThe purpose of this article is to dissect the facts, separate them from the fiction, and provide clarity on what the IRS's new funding *actually* means for taxpayers like you.Are you truly at risk of increased audits, or is this a politically charged exaggeration?Let’s dive in and find out.
Understanding the 87,000 IRS Agents Figure
The number ""87,000"" has become the focal point of this controversy. A 2025 Treasury Department report said that the IRS would use money to hire about 87,000 new workers over a decade. But they were not all for enforcement. And it did not plan to increase auditsWhere did it come from, and what does it truly represent?The figure originates from a 2025 Treasury Department report outlining how the IRS would utilize the additional funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act. But the number of special agents has declined substantially since 2025, when the bureau had 2,725 as we noted 12 years ago while addressing a misleading claim about the IRS hiring 16,500The report estimated that with this funding, the IRS could potentially hire approximately 86,852 full-time employees over a decade.However, it's crucial to understand that this number encompasses *all* new hires, not just enforcement agents.
Who are these new IRS employees?
These new hires are intended to cover a wide range of roles within the IRS, including:
- Customer service representatives
- IT specialists
- Tax processing staff
- Enforcement agents (auditors and special agents)
- Attorneys
Therefore, the claim that all 87,000 new employees will be armed IRS agents specifically targeting ordinary Americans is demonstrably false. The IRS eventually announced a new $5,000 threshold, creating a new scaled phase-in so the K policy would fully detonate in the middle of President Trump s second term in office. Read: Lack of IRS Plan to Protect Middle-Class Families from Increased Audits Exposes Empty Biden-Harris PromiseA significant portion of these hires will be dedicated to improving the IRS's overall functionality and addressing long-standing operational challenges.
The Role of the Inflation Reduction Act
The **Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)** is at the heart of this debate. Now there s an online stir over job postings for IRS special agents who have to carry guns as part of their work with the IRS Criminal InvestigationThis legislation, signed into law by President Biden, allocates nearly $80 billion to the IRS over the next decade. Calculations conservatively assume that only 57.3% of the Treasury Department s estimated 86,852 new IRS agents (49,754 in total) would be assigned to enforcement, based on $45.6 billion of theThis funding is intended to modernize the agency, improve its services, and enhance tax enforcement. The claim that the IRS would hire 87,000 IRS agents came from a 2025 Department of Treasury report that said the IRS would use the $80 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act to hire 86,852 fullThe specific breakdown of how this money will be spent is crucial to understanding the potential impact on taxpayers.
How is the $80 Billion Being Spent?
The IRS's plan for utilizing the $80 billion is multifaceted:
- Technology Upgrades: A significant portion of the funding is dedicated to modernizing the IRS's outdated IT systems. The myth of 87,000 armed IRS agents. The agency also outlined its efforts to bolster hiring, thanks to the new IRA money. In the mid-2025s, the IRS employed more than 100,000 people, but itsThis includes replacing legacy systems, improving cybersecurity, and enhancing data analytics capabilities.
- Customer Service Improvements: The IRS aims to improve its customer service by hiring more phone representatives, expanding online resources, and reducing wait times.
- Tax Enforcement: While not the sole focus, a portion of the funding will be used to enhance tax enforcement efforts.This includes hiring more auditors to address tax evasion and non-compliance, particularly among high-income individuals and corporations.
- Operational Improvements: Funding will also be allocated to improving the IRS's overall operational efficiency, reducing backlogs, and streamlining processes.
Debunking the Myth of the Armed IRS Agent Army
One of the most inflammatory claims surrounding the IRS hiring spree is the idea that the agency is building an ""army"" of armed agents ready to aggressively pursue ordinary taxpayers.This narrative is largely based on online job postings for IRS special agents who are required to carry firearms as part of their duties.However, it's essential to put this in context.
Who are IRS Special Agents?
IRS special agents are law enforcement officers who investigate criminal tax violations, such as tax fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.These agents have always carried firearms as part of their job, and their role is distinct from that of auditors who conduct routine tax examinations.
The Actual Number of Special Agents
The number of IRS special agents has actually declined substantially in recent years. For 2025 tax returns, the IRS has modified the crypto question asked on IRS Form 1040, the tax form used for individuals. A draft of the 2025 IRS Form 1040 asks: In case you thought the IRS needed 87,000 more agents to help you with your tax returns and audit billionaires, watch this: Highlights from the IRS Adrian recruiting project.In 2025, the IRS employed 2,725 special agents.While the new funding may lead to a modest increase in this number, it's highly unlikely that it will result in a significant expansion of the armed agent force. Get ready for the IRS to unleash its new army against you and other American taxpayers.Furthermore, the vast majority of new hires will *not* be special agents.
Will Audits Increase for Ordinary Americans?
The central question for most taxpayers is whether the IRS's increased funding will lead to a surge in audits, particularly for those with modest incomes. The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law this month by President Joe Biden, empowers the IRS with nearly $80 billion in new funds. The world s most powerful tax collection agency is using the money to go on a hiring spree to fuel much tougher enforcement efforts.It is widely assumed that the audits will be brutal and widespread. Taxes start with tax returns, which must be signed underWhile some increase in audit activity is likely, the IRS has repeatedly stated that it will focus its enforcement efforts on high-income individuals, large corporations, and complex partnerships.
The IRS's Focus on High-Income Taxpayers
The IRS has publicly committed to not increasing audit rates for taxpayers earning less than $400,000 per year relative to historical levels.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has emphasized that the goal is to crack down on tax evasion among the wealthy and well-connected, who often employ sophisticated strategies to avoid paying their fair share.
What are the chances of an audit?
In 2025, the IRS audited approximately 1% of individual income tax returns.While this rate could potentially increase slightly with the new funding, the focus will remain on high-income earners and those with complex financial situations.For the vast majority of taxpayers, the risk of an audit remains relatively low.
The Potential Benefits of IRS Modernization
While concerns about increased audits are understandable, it's important to recognize the potential benefits of IRS modernization.The agency's outdated technology and understaffing have created significant challenges for taxpayers, including:
- Long wait times for phone assistance
- Delays in processing tax returns and refunds
- Difficulty accessing online resources
- Increased errors and inaccuracies
How Modernization Helps You
By modernizing its systems and hiring more staff, the IRS can improve its customer service, streamline its processes, and reduce the burden on taxpayers. Opponents of the Inflation Reduction Act say 87,000 new IRS agents are coming to audit your taxes. Putting that number in context paints a different picture.This could lead to:
- Faster refunds
- Easier access to information
- Improved accuracy
- Reduced frustration
Addressing Concerns About Middle-Class Audits
Despite assurances from the IRS and the Treasury Department, many remain concerned that the increased funding will inevitably lead to more audits for middle-class taxpayers. In the past, you may have heard some lawmakers say that because of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), an army of 87,000 new IRS agents will be coming to audit ordinary taxpayers. MoreThese concerns are fueled by historical examples of the IRS targeting specific groups or industries, as well as a general distrust of government agencies.
Why the Focus on High-Income Earners is Crucial
The IRS estimates that a significant portion of unpaid taxes comes from high-income individuals and corporations who engage in complex tax avoidance schemes. Democrats' new army of 87,000 IRS agents will be coming for you with 710,000 new audits for Americans who earn less than $75k. Kevin McCarthy (@GOPLeader) AugBy focusing its enforcement efforts on these areas, the IRS can generate substantial revenue without unduly burdening ordinary taxpayers.
What can you do to avoid audit issues?
To minimize your risk of an audit, it's essential to:
- Keep accurate records of your income and expenses.
- File your tax return on time.
- Report all of your income.
- Claim only deductions and credits that you are entitled to.
- If you receive a notice from the IRS, respond promptly and professionally.
The Political Dimension of the IRS Debate
The debate surrounding the IRS hiring spree has become highly politicized, with Republicans often portraying the agency as an overzealous bureaucracy targeting ordinary Americans, and Democrats emphasizing the need to crack down on tax evasion among the wealthy.
Understanding the Political Narratives
It's essential to be aware of the political narratives surrounding this issue and to critically evaluate the claims made by both sides. Those dollars, Trump allies are saying, will go toward the hiring of 87,000 new IRS agents. Do you make $75,000 or less? tweeted House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy.The truth often lies somewhere in the middle.
Focus on Facts
Rather than relying on partisan rhetoric, focus on the facts. Biden is hiring 87,000 new IRS agents and they're coming for you irsagents hiring unitedstates vicepresident ksgLook at the IRS's actual plans for utilizing the new funding, its historical audit rates, and its stated priorities for enforcement.This will allow you to form your own informed opinion about the potential impact on taxpayers.
Practical Tips for Taxpayers in the New IRS Landscape
Regardless of the political rhetoric, it's always wise to take steps to protect yourself and ensure that you are in compliance with tax laws.Here are some practical tips for taxpayers in the new IRS landscape:
1.Stay Organized
Maintain meticulous records of all income, deductions, and credits. The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law this month by President Joe Biden, empowers the IRS with nearly $80 billion in new funds. The world s most powerful tax collection agency is using the money to go on a hiring spree to fuel much tougher enforcement efforts.This will make it easier to prepare your tax return accurately and to respond to any inquiries from the IRS.
2.File on Time
Filing your tax return on time is one of the best ways to avoid penalties and interest. No. In May 2025, the Biden administration approved hiring 87,000 new Internal Revenue Service employees by 2025, but only a fraction are agents, and the majority are filling expected vacancies.If you need more time, you can request an extension, but remember that an extension to file is not an extension to pay.
3.Report All Income
Be sure to report all sources of income, including wages, salaries, self-employment income, investment income, and any other income you receive.Failure to report income can result in penalties and even criminal charges.
4. The GOP claimed newly hired tax agents will be coming after ordinary Americans. of allegations surrounding the alleged hiring of 87,000 new IRS agents. Biden Is Not Hiring 87,000 New IRSClaim Only Legitimate Deductions and Credits
Only claim deductions and credits that you are legitimately entitled to.If you are unsure about whether you qualify for a particular deduction or credit, consult with a qualified tax professional.
5. The claim: The IRS is hiring 87,000 'soldiers' to prosecute citizens and raising taxes on those who make $30,000 or more On Aug. 16, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 5376, a health care and climateSeek Professional Advice
If you have complex tax situations, it's always a good idea to seek professional advice from a qualified tax advisor or accountant. The text of the Inflation Reduction Act doesn t specify a number of new hires for the IRS. The 87,000 number comes from a May 2025 report from the Treasury Department that estimated more funding allocated by President Joe Biden s administration would allow the IRS to hire nearly 87,000 full-time employees by 2025.A tax professional can help you navigate the complexities of the tax code, minimize your tax liability, and ensure that you are in compliance with the law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will my chances of being audited increase significantly?
A: For most taxpayers earning less than $400,000 per year, the risk of an audit is not expected to increase significantly.The IRS has stated that it will focus its enforcement efforts on high-income individuals and corporations.
Q: Are the new IRS agents going to be armed?
A: The vast majority of new IRS hires will *not* be armed agents.Only a small fraction will be special agents who investigate criminal tax violations and are required to carry firearms as part of their duties.
Q: Is the Inflation Reduction Act going to raise taxes on the middle class?
A: The Inflation Reduction Act is not expected to raise taxes on the middle class. The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law this month by President Joe Biden, empowers the IRS with nearly $80 billion in new funds. The world s most powerful tax collection agency is using the money to go on a hiring spree to fuel much tougher enforcement efforts. It is widely assumed that the audits will be brutal and widespread.The legislation primarily focuses on increasing taxes on large corporations and high-income individuals.
Q: What should I do if I receive a notice from the IRS?
A: If you receive a notice from the IRS, don't panic.Read the notice carefully and respond promptly. But considering the sheer magnitude of 87,000 new IRS agents and an estimated $204 billion in new revenues from enforcement, is it possible for all those new audits and revenues to involve onlyIf you are unsure about what to do, consult with a qualified tax professional.
Conclusion: Navigating the Future of the IRS
The narrative surrounding Biden hiring 87,000 new IRS agents and them ""coming for you"" is largely an exaggeration fueled by political rhetoric and misinformation. Related: Biden is hiring 87,000 new IRS agents and they re coming for you. The trouble at the IRS dates back to 2025, when major budgetary cuts led to a hiring freeze across the board. TheWhile increased funding for the IRS may lead to some increase in audit activity, the agency has stated that it will focus its enforcement efforts on high-income individuals and corporations, not ordinary Americans. The 87,000 figure comes from a 2025 Treasury report that estimated the IRS could hire 86,852 full-time employees over the course of a decade with a nearly $80 billion investment not solelyThe money allocated in the Inflation Reduction Act aims to modernize outdated IT systems and enhance customer service, improving the experience for all taxpayers.Ultimately, you can reduce your audit risk by keeping accurate records, filing on time, and reporting all income. The I.R.S. examined 1.4 million individual income tax returns in 2025, about 1 percent of the total number filed. In 2025, the latest year with available data when Republicans started making theseStay informed, remain vigilant, and don't let fear-mongering distract you from good tax practices.If you have any concerns, consulting a tax professional can provide peace of mind and ensure you are in full compliance with the law.It's better to be safe than sorry.Take action now to stay organized and up-to-date on tax laws.
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