IRS Closes Facilities in Broad Real-Estate Consolidation Plan

In a broad move to wring more savings from real estate costs, the IRS announced it will close 43 small offices over the next two years and reduce space at many other larger facilities.

"Given today's tight budget environment, we have to be willing to make the tough but responsible calls to save taxpayer dollars," IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman said in a statement. "Cutting and consolidating our real estate is a responsible way we can save money. It's an important addition to our growing portfolio of cost-saving measures."

None of the offices to be shuttered provide taxpayer assistance, and all have fewer than 25 employees. The IRS said taxpayers would be only minimally affected by the closures.

IRS also plans to consolidate multiple offices "within the same commuting area" and will increase the use of desk-sharing and telework at other offices to save space.

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