Microsoft wants to cut up to 60,000 employees with a massive employee buyout initiative

Published Oct 26, 2026, 2:54 PM EDT Simon is a Computer Science BSc graduate who has been writing about technology since 2014, and using Windows machines since 3.1. After working for an indie game studio and acting as the family's go-to technician for all computer issues, he found his passion for writing and decided to use his skill set to write about all things tech. Since beginning his writing career, he has written for many different publications such as WorldStart, Listverse, and MakeTechEasier. However, after finding his home at MakeUseOf in February 2019, he would eventually move on to its sister site, XDA, to bring the latest and greatest in Windows, Linux, and DIY electronics. Summary Microsoft offers voluntary exit buyouts to up to 60,000 employees across multiple countries. The offer expands beyond level 70, letting lower-level staff access the Voluntary Exit Offer. Employees in AI, Copilot, CoreAI, Windows, Xbox, finance, and HR were targeted; some teams were only partly included. By now, it's no secret that the large tech companies are performing big layoffs. The last round within Microsoft, which left the team behind Halo gutted and replaced with another studio, is still fresh in our minds. Now, Microsoft is asking for up to 60,000 employees to take an employee buyout as the company continues to downsize. Microsoft wants up to 60,000 employees to take a buyout People across several divisions and countries were made the offer As spotted by The Verge, Microsoft has sent out a message to its employees in Canada, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It announces the Voluntary Exit Offer (VEO), which allows employees to take a buyout and leave with additional support. Previously, Microsoft only offered plans like this to employees who were level 70 or above, but this time, people below that level can use the VEO: This offer gives eligible employees who may be considering a future outside the company a new choice to make that transition now with support. It also gives participating organizations another way to adapt their workforce to changing needs. The Voluntary Exit Offer reflects an important part of how we’re evolving our approach to change: creating greater flexibility and, where possible, more ways for employees to shape their next chapter While the message doesn't reveal how many people received an offer, sources familiar with The Verge say 60,000 employees got one. These employees are in areas such as "AI experiences, Copilot, CoreAI, Windows + Devices, Xbox, finance, and human resources teams." Meanwhile, those on "Microsoft’s cloud + AI, Microsoft AI teams, and corporate, external, and legal affairs" are only partially included.