IRS To Reopen Taxpayer Assistance Centers

The IRS announced today that it is reopening previously closed taxpayer assistance centers (TACs), adding additional TACs, and starting a series of Community Assistance Visits to assist taxpayers in areas where the closest TAC is prohibitively far away. Funding from the Inflation Reduction Act provided the means for the IRS to increase its in-person customer service options.

Three new TACs were opened—two in Puerto Rico and one in Mississippi—and thirty-two previously shuttered TACs have been reopened since August 2022. In June, the IRS held its first Community Assistance Visit in Paris, Texas, and more visits are currently planned for seven additional states: Michigan, Nebraska, Idaho, Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon, and New Mexico. The Community Assistance Visits are designed “to give taxpayers from underserved areas an opportunity to meet face-to-face with IRS assistors.”

Reopening TACs and providing more opportunities for in-person service is part of a larger effort toward improving service to taxpayers as part of the IRS Strategic Operating Plan for using funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. IRS Commissioner, Danny Werfel, stated on a scheduled call with the media, “While an important part of this [improved service] involves providing improved online tools and services, in-person assistance is a vital piece that the IRS cannot overlook.” With the addition of Community Assistance Visits it is clear that the IRS is acknowledging the difficulties some taxpayers face with both online options and with travelling to their nearest TAC.

According to the news release the IRS partnered with the United Way in Paris, Texas to provide secure space for the event. The IRS is planning to work with other local community organizations to ensure secure space for the events held in other states.

Taxpayers wishing to attend an event (or who get an appointment at a new or newly re-opened TAC) should plan on bringing the following items to their visit or appointment:

• State or government issued photo ID
• Copies of letters and/or notices
• Supporting documents that address the issue(s) raised in the IRS correspondence

The Community Assistance Visits are also open to tax professionals and attorneys to work account-related issues on behalf of their clients. A valid IRS Form 2848, Power of Attorney, signed and dated by the client, will be required in addition to relevant identification, correspondence, and supporting documents.