The War on the IRS: What It Means for Americans With Tax Debt

The IRS has already forgiven an estimated $250M in tax debt in 2025. Check your eligibility for tax forgiveness here.
WASHINGTON—The President and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are waging war on the IRS, a move experts warn could seriously affect Americans struggling with tax debt.
Earlier this year, the administration froze IRS hiring and cut 7,000 jobs. Plans are underway to slash half of the agency’s 90,000 employees by the end of 2025.
Tax professionals caution that these staffing and budget cuts are likely to overwhelm the IRS with paperwork, making it harder for taxpayers to access relief programs.
To avoid a backlog of applications, thousands of Americans are rushing to apply for the Fresh Start Program, which helps reduce or eliminate tax debts. Experts are urging the public to apply for tax forgiveness as soon as possible, while programs remain accessible.
When taxpayers fill out our Tax Relief Survey, they are able to see if they qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program and begin their journey toward tax resolution in minutes.
Similar cutbacks in the past have left the IRS with severe backlogs, delaying help for those in need.
"We're seeing a surge of clients eager to resolve their tax debts," says Melissa Richardson, a tax attorney specializing in IRS settlements. "The IRS is still processing our clients' applications, but agents indicate that time is running out."
Since its launch in 2011, the Fresh Start Program has helped millions of Americans resolve their tax debts, but it appears particularly vulnerable under this administration's cost-cutting measures.
Congressional sources indicate that key Republican lawmakers are pushing to scale back or completely dismantle these programs, viewing them as unnecessary government handouts rather than vital financial lifelines for struggling taxpayers.
Experts recommend taking action immediately to resolve your tax debt before further cuts take effect. They suggest working with tax professionals who understand the complex landscape of IRS relief programs.
"Don't wait for the situation to worsen," advises Richardson. "The window of opportunity is closing, and taxpayers need to use these programs while they are still available."
Take this 60-second Quiz to See if You Qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program.
Tax debt affects thousands of Americans; however, few seek assistance to resolve their debts with the IRS. It’s not that the resources are unavailable, but that the IRS bureaucracy often gets too complicated for the average American to handle.
In truth, fighting the IRS is a full-time job, so Americans are turning to reputable tax professionals to ensure they receive the most relief possible.
Remember, it is 100% free to see if you qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program, and a few minutes could help you save thousands.
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Every day, your tax debt grows larger due to penalties and fees. It is vital to act now and partner with a tax relief expert to receive the best resolution possible.
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