As February 2026 approaches the tax filing period, new concerns have been raised about whether the Internal Revenue Service is fully prepared for the upcoming filing season. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) has warned that staffing shortages could create serious challenges for the Internal Revenue Service, potentially affecting how smoothly the 2026 filing season runs for taxpayers across the United States.
TIGTA Raises Staffing Concerns
According to TIGTA, the IRS continues to struggle with staffing levels that may not be sufficient to handle the heavy workload of the 2026 filing season. Millions of tax returns, refund requests, and taxpayer inquiries are expected, yet the agency may not have enough trained employees to manage these tasks efficiently. TIGTA has highlighted that staffing gaps could slow down processing times and increase delays for taxpayers.
Why Staffing Matters for the Filing Season
The tax filing season is one of the busiest periods for the IRS. Adequate staffing is essential to ensure timely return processing, accurate refund issuance, and proper handling of taxpayer questions. When staffing levels are low, backlogs can grow quickly. This can lead to longer wait times for refunds, delayed responses to notices, and increased frustration for individuals and businesses trying to meet their tax obligations.
Impact on Taxpayers in February 2026
If staffing shortages persist, taxpayers may experience slower service during the 2026 filing season. This could include longer processing times for paper returns, extended delays in resolving errors, and difficulty reaching customer support. For taxpayers relying on refunds for essential expenses, even small delays can cause financial stress. TIGTA has emphasized that these risks are especially concerning given the high volume of returns expected.
IRS Efforts to Address the Issue
The IRS has acknowledged staffing challenges and has taken steps to improve hiring and training. Efforts include recruiting seasonal workers, expanding training programs, and increasing the use of technology to reduce manual workloads. However, TIGTA has indicated that these efforts may not be enough to fully offset the impact of staffing shortages before the 2026 filing season begins.
What This Means Moving Forward
TIGTA’s concerns serve as a warning that preparation for the 2026 filing season may face obstacles. While the IRS continues to modernize systems and improve digital services, staffing remains a critical factor. Taxpayers are encouraged to file early, double-check information, and use electronic filing methods where possible to reduce the risk of delays.
Final Outlook for the 2026 Filing Season
As February 2026 unfolds, TIGTA’s findings highlight the importance of readiness at the IRS. Staffing challenges could influence the overall filing experience, making early preparation and awareness more important than ever for taxpayers.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only. IRS operations, staffing levels, and filing season procedures are subject to change based on official government decisions. This content does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Readers should refer to official IRS or TIGTA communications or consult qualified professionals for guidance related to their specific tax situation.
