INDIANA – Federal employees have until February 6 to decide whether to accept buyouts and resign as part of a broader push to return workers to the office. The buyout includes severance pay through September 30, 2025, and is part of a reform effort by the administration to restore accountability and efficiency within the federal workforce. Workers interested in the offer must send an email with “Resign” in the subject line from their government accounts.
However, certain federal workers, including postal workers, military personnel, immigration officials, and those in national security roles, will not be eligible for the buyout program.
The move comes as the administration seeks to end flexible work arrangements that many employees had following the pandemic. Those who take the buyout will retain pay and benefits, with no in-person work requirements until September 30, 2025. However, certain employees, including postal workers and military personnel, are not eligible.
The “Fork in the Road” memo also signals potential changes to workforce structure, including furloughs and reclassification to at-will status, which would make firing easier. Employees not opting for the buyout face uncertainty regarding their job security.
OPM has asked agencies to report weekly on resignations and retirements through September. Many federal workers have expressed confusion and concern over the changes, which could reshape the federal workforce significantly.
