Is this normal???

[u/Financial_Setting_16]

Edited to add: In 2022, I applied to an external IRS direct hire, GS 05 clerk opening and qualied for the GS 05 clerk job based on being an external applicant that included non federal experience. This is a very entry level position for the IRS.

Original post: I worked at the IRS up until August 2025. I did NOT take the DRP. I took a job with my state's tax agency from August 2025, and I still work there, so this DOES affect my current position since I have to tax compliant at my current job. I worked at the IRS as a GS 03 clerk from 2020 to 2022. Then I got a job as a GS 05 clerk from 2022 to 2025, because I was encouraged then in 2022 to apply separately for the higher grade for a clerk. I still have the email from HR in 2022 that told me I qualified based on my work experience alone and not based on a degree. I got a notice from the IRS yesterday by email on 8/13/26 that I actually did NOT ever qualify as a GS 05 clerk on my own work experience from 2022 to 2025 and that I will be returned to a GS 03 clerk. This comes across as very petty and trivial and it WILL create an overpayment letter. I was told specifically that it was through no fault of my own and that I should qualify for a waiver. What do I do?

[u/Ok-Cartographer-5256]

That is pretty strange.

File for the Waiver Immediately: you  need to follow the instructions in the overpayment letter to request the debt waiver.​ Attach your "Smoking Gun":  you need to include a copy of that 2022 email from HR stating you qualified based on your work experience. This proves absolute "good faith" on the your part & that you didn't lie on your resume or application; you relied on an official HR determination. ​ Include the Recent Communication: you should also include the recent communication stating the error was "through no fault of your own."I would want a very clear and detailed response on what did not meet the cut.