The IRS CEO announced a significant reorganization and leadership changes, including key roles for Hunter Biden whistleblowers, aimed at modernizing the agency and improving taxpayer service ahead of the challenging 2026 tax filing season, which includes new tax laws and follows workforce reductions.
Days before the 2026 tax filing season, IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano announced a major shake-up in personnel and operations, signaling a push to improve taxpayer service and modernize the agency. This reorganization comes as the IRS prepares to process millions of tax returns and implement significant tax law changes from President Donald Trump’s recent package, which includes new tax relief for tips and overtime, and deductions for older Americans. In a letter to employees, Bisignano detailed new priorities and executive leadership changes. Notably, Gary Shapley, a whistleblower in the Hunter Biden tax investigations, was named deputy chief of the Criminal Investigation division, while Jarod Koopman will replace retiring Guy Ficco as head of CI and chief tax compliance officer. Joseph Ziegler, another Hunter Biden whistleblower, was appointed chief of internal consulting. Despite Bisignano's confidence, the June National Taxpayer Advocate report warned of a potentially 'rocky' 2026 season due to a 26% workforce reduction and upcoming tax law changes. Bisignano's priorities for 2026 include enhancing customer service, improving tax collections, and safeguarding taxpayer privacy. The IRS anticipates receiving approximately 164 million individual income tax returns, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent predicting larger refunds for 2026 due to the Republican tax law.
