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There's a Big Clue About Who Was Likely Involved in 'Deferred Resignation' Offer to Federal Workers

Leah Barkoukis
Leah Barkoukis  |  January 29, 2025 8:00 AM

As part of his effort to downsize and streamline the federal government, President Trump this week offered a generous buyout to federal employees who do not wish to return to the office full time. Sarah covered the details on Tuesday—they must submit their resignation by Feb. 6 if they want to receive pay and benefits until September 30, 2025. There are some exceptions—the offer does not extend to military personnel, Postal Service employees, and those in national security or immigration enforcement positions. 

Social media users are praising the move and are impressed with the language in the Office of Personnel Management’s notice, particularly its simplicity. 

Fork in the Road

Frequently Asked Questions

Below is the email that was sent to federal employees on January 28, 2025 presenting a deferred resignation offer. If you did not respond to that email and wish to accept the deferred resignation offer, you may do so by following these steps.

1)Send an email to hr@opm.gov from your government account. Only an email from your .gov or .mil account will be accepted.
2)Type the word "Resign" into the "Subject" line of the email. Hit "Send".

Others noticed Elon Musk may have had a hand in crafting the offer and language. 

Musk also pinned an old post on X regarding the "fork in the road" art piece he commissioned two years ago.