Microsoft announced on October 26, 2026, that it will offer voluntary buyouts to approximately 60,000 employees, which is about 25% of its global workforce. This offer is aimed at employees in select regions, including the U.S., India, Canada, and the U.K., who may be contemplating career changes. The initiative follows previous workforce reductions earlier in the year and is part of Microsoft's strategy to manage costs while investing in AI and data center development.
Key facts
- Microsoft will offer buyouts to about 60,000 employees.
- Eligible employees are from the U.S., India, Canada, and the U.K.
- Employees at level 70 or below can participate in the buyout.
- This is Microsoft's second voluntary workforce reduction in 2026.
- In April 2026, Microsoft offered voluntary retirement to 8,750 U.S. employees.
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