IRS Struggled To Onboard New Hires Even Before Current Woes, Report Finds

Forbes Business

by Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes Staff

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) faced significant challenges in onboarding new hires during its 2024 expansion, with thousands of employees reportedly lacking adequate training and equipment. According to a TIGTA report, these issues raise serious concerns about the agency's ability to effectively manage the upcoming tax filing season. The findings highlight systemic problems that could impact taxpayer service and compliance efforts. The report reveals that the IRS struggled not only with equipping new hires but also with implementing comprehensive training programs. Many employees reportedly received insufficient or delayed training, leaving them unprepared to handle their responsibilities. Additionally, the agency faced delays in providing necessary tools and resources, further complicating its operations. These challenges appear to stem from broader management issues within the IRS, including inadequate planning and resource allocation. The implications of these findings are particularly concerning for businesses and taxpayers. Delays in processing tax returns and refunds could disrupt cash flow for individuals and corporations alike. Furthermore, the IRS's inefficiencies may lead to increased errors in tax filings, potentially causing headaches for both taxpayers and the agency itself. As the tax filing season approaches, the need for swift resolution of these issues becomes more urgent. For businesses closely following developments in

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/24/2026