IRS head announces a shake-up on the eve of the 2026 tax season

"Days before the 2026 tax filing season begins, the head of the IRS announced a shake-up Tuesday, saying the personnel and operational changes are intended to improve taxpayer service and modernize the agency. The timing of the announcement coincides with a critical moment for the agency, as the IRS prepares to process millions of tax returns while simultaneously implementing major tax law changes under the tax and spending package President Donald Trump signed into law last summer."

"In a letter addressed to the agency's 74,000 employees and viewed by The Associated Press, Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano announced new priorities and a reorganization of IRS executive leadership. Notably, Gary Shapley, the whistleblower who testified publicly about investigations into Hunter Biden's taxes and served just two days as IRS Commissioner last year, was named deputy chief of the Criminal Investigation division."

"The June National Taxpayer Advocate report to Congress warned that the 2026 season could be rocky after a series of mass layoffs last year brought on by the Department of Government Efficiency. With the IRS workforce reduced by 26% and significant tax law changes on the horizon, there are risks to next year's filing season, said Erin M. Collins, who leads the organization assigned to protect taxpayers' rights."

Days before the 2026 tax filing season, the IRS announced a reorganization of executive leadership and operational changes aimed at improving taxpayer service and modernizing the agency. New tax provisions include relief for tips and overtime and additional deductions for qualifying older Americans. Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano named Gary Shapley deputy chief of Criminal Investigation, Jarod Koopman will replace retiring Guy Ficco and join as chief tax compliance officer, and Joseph Ziegler was named chief of internal consulting. The National Taxpayer Advocate warned the 2026 season could be rocky after mass layoffs reduced the workforce by 26%. Bisignano expressed confidence the new team can deliver a successful filing season.

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