Key Takeaways:

• IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel to resign effective January 20, 2025.
• His departure aligns with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
• Werfel's early exit is unusual as IRS commissioners typically serve across administrations.
• Former Congressman Billy Long has been nominated to take over Werfel's role.
• Concerns have been raised regarding Long's qualifications for the position.

In a surprising announcement, IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel revealed he will be stepping down from his position on January 20, 2025, coinciding with President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. This decision was conveyed via a letter to IRS employees, marking his departure earlier than expected, as his term was originally slated to run until late 2027. “After significant introspection and consultation with others, I’ve determined the best way to support a successful transition is to depart the IRS on January 20, 2025,” Werfel stated in his communication, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring a smooth handover to his successor [source](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2025/01/17/irs-commissioner-danny-werfel-announces-departure/).

Werfel, who was appointed by President Biden and took office in March 2023, expressed that his time with the IRS, while fulfilling, will conclude on this imminent date. He reflected on the support he received from his staff, stating, “While leaving a job you love is never easy, I take comfort in knowing that the civil servant leaders and employees at the IRS are the exact right team to effectively steward this organization forward until a new IRS Commissioner is confirmed” [source](https://apnews.com/article/irs-commissioner-werfel-362c3a82afccf40780eaf6357afcb637).

The announcement follows Trump’s decision in December to nominate Billy Long, a former Missouri congressman, as the new IRS Commissioner. Long's background as an auctioneer rather than in tax policy has drawn skepticism. Democrats, including Senator Ron Wyden, have labeled Long's selection as “a bizarre choice,” raising questions about his qualifications and readiness for the role [source](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2025/01/17/irs-commissioner-danny-werfel-announces-departure/).

As the incoming administration prepares for their agenda, the IRS's foundational operations will undergo scrutiny. Werfel highlighted the agency's recent achievements, stating that under his leadership, they improved service delivery significantly, evidenced by answering nearly nine out of ten calls during the past two tax seasons, which contrasted sharply with previous years’ performance. He noted, “Thanks to your tireless efforts, we have delivered two of the best filing seasons in decades” [source](https://apnews.com/article/irs-commissioner-werfel-362c3a82afccf40780eaf6357afcb637).

Following Werfel’s resignation, Deputy Commissioner Douglas O'Donnell is set to step in as Acting Commissioner. O'Donnell’s prior experience includes service as acting commissioner and a role in the IRS’s Large Business and International Division, making him a familiar face within the agency.

As the IRS transitions to new leadership, further details on the changes are expected to be outlined in the coming days. The future of the agency’s operations and budget remains a key focus amid shifting political landscapes, particularly under the forthcoming Republican administration.

For more information, refer to the original articles from Forbes and AP News.