Sen. Susan Collins (R) announced Monday that the recently closed Tax Assistance Centers (TACs) in Bangor and Augusta have now been reopened by the federal government.

TACs are physical offices offering support to those who lack stable internet access, need help navigating technology, or otherwise require in-person assistance with their taxes.

Had these closures remained permanent, the only remaining TAC in Maine would have been located in South Portland.

Earlier this year, Sen. Collins joined forces with Sen. Angus King (I) and Rep. Jared Golden (D) in urging the IRS to avoid keeping these centers closed.

“TACs provide critical services to rural communities and seniors,” the lawmakers wrote, in part. “We ask that you restaff and re-open the TACs in Bangor and Augusta in a timely manner, and work with the Maine Congressional Delegation on a longer-term strategy to avoid future prolonged disruptions to these services in Maine.”

Collins also questioned Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about the TAC closures during a recent Senate Appropriations Committee hearing.

The centers will be staffed with current IRS employees for now, although the IRS is seeking permanent staff for each of the locations going forward.

“Today’s announcement is welcome news for Mainers who rely on in-person assistance to navigate our tax system,” said Collins in a statement Monday. “Reopening the Taxpayer Assistance Centers in Augusta and Bangor will make an enormous difference for our seniors, rural residents, and other Mainers who should not have to travel hundreds of miles simply to get help from the IRS.”

“I appreciate Secretary Bessent’s responsiveness to my concerns and will continue working to better ensure that Mainers have access to the federal services they need and deserve,” she added.

Treasury Secretary Bessent also shared a statement celebrating the reopenings.

“Treasury and the IRS remain committed to delivering efficient, accessible services to taxpayers across the country,” Bessent said. “Reopening the Taxpayer Assistance Centers in Augusta and Bangor is an important step toward improving access for Maine taxpayers to support closer to home.”

“I appreciate Senator Collins’ leadership in bringing this issue to my attention and her partnership as we expand in-person services in the great State of Maine,” he added.

Click Here to Read Sen. Collins’ Full Press Release