The IRS is upgrading its online tools and services with help from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding. These upgrades are designed to make tax-related tasks easier and more efficient for both businesses and individuals. The goal is to simplify the process and make it more accessible for everyone.
Expanded Online Accounts
One big change is the expansion of online accounts for both businesses and individuals on the IRS website. The Document Upload Tool has been used a lot, with over a million submissions so far.
Plus, there’s been a rise in electronically filed amended returns, making it easier for many taxpayers to correct mistakes.
New Features for Individual Accounts
The IRS has rolled out six new features for individual online accounts, including a key update: the Business Tax Account tool is now available in Spanish. This means more taxpayers can easily manage their accounts in their preferred language.
Additionally, businesses can now file amended business forms online or electronically, making it quicker and simpler to make corrections.
Community Assistance Visits
To better help taxpayers in underserved areas, the IRS is stepping up its Community Assistance Visits. This initiative is part of the IRS Strategic Operating Plan, designed to offer more face-to-face help and resources where they are needed most.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel highlighted how crucial these visits are for connecting with American taxpayers across different communities.
In-Person Support at TACs
The IRS is expanding its in-person support at Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) to help more people directly. If you live in any of these locations, you can get face-to-face help on the following dates:
| Location | Dates |
|---|---|
| Thomasville, Alabama | August 5-9 |
| Abilene, Kansas | August 19-23 |
| West Plains, Missouri | September 9-13 |
| Clarkston, Washington | September 23-27 |
| Fairbanks, Alaska | October 7-11 |
| Potsdam, New York | October 21-25 |
If you’re in these areas, be sure to check the IRS website for more information on specific dates and hours of operation.
Future Plans
Looking ahead to 2025, the IRS is focused on making live support even better. They plan to boost the efficiency of their call centers and cut down on paper use.
The agency is dedicated to helping taxpayers get all the benefits and credits they’re eligible for, aiming to make the tax process easier and clearer.
The IRS is working hard to improve its services, both online and in person. With new tools and more support, taxpayers will have access to more efficient and user-friendly resources.
These updates show the IRS’s commitment to providing better service and ensuring that everyone gets the help they need.
FAQs
What new features are available in IRS online accounts?
The IRS now offers a Spanish version of the Business Tax Account tool and more options for online filing.
Where can I get in-person help from the IRS?
You can find IRS support in Thomasville, Abilene, West Plains, Clarkston, Fairbanks, and Potsdam.
How do I use the new IRS Document Upload Tool?
You can access the Document Upload Tool through your IRS online account.
What is the IRS doing to support underserved areas?
The IRS is making more Community Assistance Visits to offer in-person help in areas that need it most.
What improvements are planned for IRS call centers?
The IRS aims to make call centers more efficient and reduce the amount of paper used to provide better live assistance.