IRS will close over 110 taxpayer assistance offices across the U.S. amid cost-cutting measures
The IRS will close more than 110 taxpayer assistance offices as part of a cost-cutting strategy, raising concerns among those who rely on in-person tax support. The decision aligns with federal budget reductions and agency restructuring.
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the closure of over 110 taxpayer assistance offices nationwide. This decision is part of the Trump administration’s strategy to cut costs and reduce the physical presence of federal agencies. The move has sparked concerns among taxpayers who depend on these centers for in-person support with their tax obligations.
The information was revealed in a letter from the General Services Administration (GSA), obtained by The Washington Post. According to the document, at least 113 taxpayer assistance centers will have their lease agreements either canceled or not renewed upon expiration. This decision comes during the peak tax season, which ends on April 15, 2025, and aligns with broader federal budget cuts and workforce reductions.
In the middle of season as millions file taxes, IRS fires 6,700 employees, mainly auditors dealing with tax compliance issues. Photo: The Economic Times.
Affected offices and closure details
The letter, signed by Michael Peters, Commissioner of Public Buildings at the GSA, states that most offices with flexible lease agreements will be shut down. However, those classified as "public service" centers will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. While the IRS has not specified whether these offices will be relocated or if services will shift entirely to digital platforms, federal real estate sources suggest that some locations may merge with other assistance centers.
This restructuring aligns with the Trump administration's broader efforts to streamline government operations and reduce bureaucratic costs. Last week, the IRS initiated the layoff of approximately 7,000 probationary employees. As mentioned, this state entity has not specified if these offices will be relocated or if their services will be transferred to digital platforms. However, sources from the federal real estate sector indicated to the aforementioned media that some of them could be consolidated with other service centers.
Impact on taxpayers and available alternatives
The closure of these taxpayer assistance centers has raised concerns, particularly among individuals who rely on in-person services for tax-related inquiries or those with limited access to digital tools. The IRS has been promoting online services as an alternative, providing resources and guidance on its official website. Additionally, the agency is expected to expand phone support and other remote assistance mechanisms to compensate for the closures.
However, taxpayer advocacy groups warn that these measures may not fully address the needs of vulnerable populations who depend on in-person assistance. It’s worth noting that in recent years, the IRS had encouraged the reopening and expansion of assistance centers thanks to additional funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. As part of that initiative, more than 50 new centers were opened, bringing the total to over 360 nationwide.