The state Department of Revenue is getting ready to shut down the last of several field offices targeted for closure in recent years.
Since 2007, the Department has been working to consolidate its field offices from 27 locations to just seven. Spokeswoman Stephanie Marquis says that goal will be reached next month when the Rhinelander office joins the list of those that have closed their doors.
Marquis says the move has saved DOR $327,000 annually in lease costs alone. Staff from those locations has been shifted to the remaining seven regional offices. Each location has been closed as its current lease expired.
Marquis says the changing ways in which people are seeking tax help was a big factor in the decision, because many taxpayers are just going online now for help or to file their returns. As a result, she says there’s just much of a need for walk-in services to be available all year.
Marquis says those still needing help with their taxes shouldn’t worry, since there are many options available for help through customer service hotlines, the DOR website, and the over 200 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites that operate statewide during tax season.