

The IRS has expanded IRS taxpayer services during the 2024 filing season, extending hours at Taxpayer Assistance Centers and adding special Saturday openings. The changes come as Florida remains one of the states with the highest refund activity, increasing demand for in-person and online assistance.
The Internal Revenue Service said it expanded hours at nearly 250 Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) nationwide to improve access during peak filing weeks. The extended hours apply during the filing season window and are intended to help taxpayers resolve return issues, identity verification requests, and payment plan questions.
According to an IRS news release announcing the 2024 filing season, the agency increased in-person availability and staffing as part of a broader effort to improve service levels. The IRS directed taxpayers to use the TAC Locator tool to confirm office hours and determine whether appointments are required at specific locations.
The agency also reminded taxpayers to prepare documents in advance to reduce appointment times. Guidance on IRS.gov explains what records to bring and outlines which services are available at local offices.
In addition to weekday hour extensions, the IRS announced special Saturday openings at participating TACs on select dates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The agency described the additional weekend hours as an option for taxpayers who cannot visit during the work week.
The Saturday openings provide walk-in service for most routine assistance, including account inquiries and clarification of notices. However, certain services, such as cash payments, remain limited at TAC locations.
The IRS said in its announcement that the expanded access is designed to provide “face-to-face help” during filing season, when demand typically increases. The agency encouraged taxpayers to verify local participation before traveling to a TAC.
IRS operational data help explain why service adjustments can be necessary in high-volume states. In its FY2024 Data Book, the IRS reported processing more than 266.6 million tax returns and other forms, including approximately 161 million individual income tax returns.
The same report noted that California, Texas, and Florida had the most significant total refunds issued during the fiscal year. Large refund volumes often correspond with increased refund status checks, identity verification requests, and notice-related questions during peak filing periods.
Florida’s population size and filing activity can translate into heavier demand across service channels, including in-person visits, phone calls, and online account access. The IRS has stated that improvements to staffing and tools are meant to help manage that demand.
Alongside expanded IRS taxpayer services at local offices, the agency highlighted improvements to its “Where’s My Refund?” tool. The online system provides updated refund status information and is available on IRS.gov and through the IRS2Go mobile app.
According to the IRS filing season announcement, more explicit refund status messages are intended to reduce the need for taxpayers to call for basic updates. The agency continues to encourage electronic filing and direct deposit to speed processing and minimize delays.
Taxpayers can also access online accounts to view balances, payment history, and specific notices. IRS officials have said that expanding digital tools remains a priority within broader service modernization efforts.
Florida taxpayers seeking in-person help should use the TAC Locator to confirm hours and appointment requirements before visiting an IRS office. Not all locations participate in extended or Saturday hours.
The IRS recommends checking “Where’s My Refund?” before contacting the agency about refund status. Most refunds are issued within 21 days for electronically filed returns with direct deposit, according to IRS guidance.
Taxpayers with complex issues, including identity verification letters or payment plan requests, may benefit from scheduling appointments early in the filing season. Using online tools helps reduce wait times for both phone and in-office assistance.
By William Mc Lee, Editor-in-Chief & Tax Expert—Get Tax Relief Now