IRS Rescinded 80% of RIFs Given to Civil Rights & Compliance Staff
federal employment irs layoffs mindfulness at work mspb reinstatement rif appeals Aug 04, 2025In a rare but dramatic pivot, the IRS has rescinded nearly 80% of its Reduction in Force (RIF) notices to Civil Rights and Compliance employees. The agency issued a one-sentence reversal memo stating simply: “Never mind, you’re still employed.” While this about-face caught many by surprise, it raises a critical question for federal employees across government: Can your agency do the same?
Theoretically, yes. And if they do, the legal and financial implications are substantial.
You Keep Your Grade, Step, and Leave
If your agency cancels your RIF before the effective date, you remain on the payroll at your original grade and step. If you were already separated, the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) can order full reinstatement with back pay, restored benefits, and even reimbursement for attorney fees. You also retain all accrued leave and service credit, as though the RIF never happened.
This means any time spent off the payroll could be retroactively reversed—assuming you challenge the separation in time and through the correct legal channels.
Early-Outs Signed Under Duress? You Can Fight That
Some employees, fearing uncertainty or coerced by agency pressure, accepted early retirements or buy-outs. But if these agreements were signed under duress—especially when a RIF cancellation later reveals they were unnecessary—those “voluntary” separations might not hold up.
The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) is already contesting this at the IRS. If you’re in a similar situation, you may have legal grounds to revoke your separation and seek reinstatement.
A Legal and Strategic Mess for Agencies
The IRS’s U-turn underscores a deeper dysfunction: RIFs launched without solid workforce planning are sowing chaos. Agencies like State, HHS, Education, and EPA are still moving forward with layoffs, even as the legal ground shifts beneath them post-Loper Bright. This lack of coordination not only demoralizes employees—it risks mission failure and costly litigation.
Mindfulness in the Midst of Uncertainty
If you’re holding a pink slip right now, take a breath. As this IRS episode shows, RIFs can be reversed. Your rights don’t vanish with a notice, and timely legal action may open the door to reinstatement, compensation, or both. The key is to stay informed, document everything, and seek experienced help if needed.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
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