READING, PA — Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) has announced the Internal Revenue Service‘s (IRS) plan to fully reopen the Reading Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC), a crucial facility for residents in Pennsylvania’s Sixth Congressional District. The center, located strategically below Houlahan’s district office, had been closed since early July, impacting the availability of essential tax services.
The closure was primarily attributed to the attrition of two key employees, which led to a temporary suspension of full operations. In response, Representative Houlahan proactively addressed IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, emphasizing the necessity of the center for the community, particularly for individuals who rely on in-person assistance due to limitations in accessing online or phone services. Highlighting the socioeconomic context, Houlahan noted, “In-person services are critical for disadvantaged, older, or disabled individuals, especially in Reading, where the poverty rate is 29.4% and nearly 20% of residents live with a disability.”
In a promising development, the IRS has implemented a phased reopening strategy. Currently, a temporary employee is facilitating taxpayer services at the Reading TAC three days a week. The center operates on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This arrangement will continue until the permanent staff completes training and the center is fully resourced.
The IRS projects that the Reading TAC will resume its five-day service schedule by December 30, 2024. Commissioner Werfel acknowledged the importance of the center and assured ongoing efforts to expedite its full operational status, stating that employee volunteers and new hires are key to bridging the gap during this transition.
Representative Houlahan expressed appreciation for the IRS’s responsiveness and transparency, recognizing the significance of the center’s reopening for her constituents. She remarked, “I am grateful that my letter brought eyes, attention, and prioritization to the importance of the in-person Taxpayer Assistance Center in Reading.”
The reopening of the Reading TAC represents a critical step in restoring essential services to the community, ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need for effective tax management and compliance. As preparations continue, the commitment to reopening underscores a broader effort to enhance service delivery and accessibility for all taxpayers in the region.
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