IRS offers appointments at 10 Taxpayer Assistance Centers

In an effort to speed up things for folks visiting some Internal Revenue Service Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs), the agency began on Feb. 23 offering appointments.

You can set up a specific time — the links below will offer details — to talk with an IRS rep if you're in:

• Atlanta, Georgia (Atlanta-Woodcock)
• Austin, Texas
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Chicago, Illinois (Dearborn)
• Denver, Colorado
• Fresno, California
• Hartford, Connecticut
• Plantation, Florida
• San Antonio, Texas
• Seattle, Washington

This is only a test in those 10 locations. But if it works, the appointment option could be expanded. Overall, the IRS has more than 350 walk-in locations across the country.

Avoiding long lines: Typically, service at most IRS offices is on a first-come, first-served basis. That means some taxpayers must deal with long lines, sometimes waiting more than an hour.

The IRS believes the appointments could help taxpayers by allowing them to know in advance that they can get the service they need.

"During a challenging filing season with a very limited budget, we need to find ways to increase our efficiency and still provide the best service possible to taxpayers," said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen in announcing the appointment option. "My hope is that this test increases the level of customer service that we can provide while minimizing needless burden on taxpayers."

No set time for some services: Make sure, however, that you do need to talk to an IRS agent before setting up an appointment.

If you're heading to one of the 10 appointment-available offices simply to make a payment or pick up forms, those services still will be first-come, first-served.

In those cases, the IRS suggests taxpayers download forms and other documents from IRS.gov and use the agency's Direct Pay system to remit any due taxes.

You also can find out what else is available at local IRS offices nationwide, as well as find the one nearest you, at the IRS special TAC Web page.

You also might find these items of interest:

• 4 Free File tips
• 5 things to check when hiring a tax preparer
• Get free, in-person tax help at VITA, TCE and military sites