In light of Federal Shutdown, NJ Treasury Reminds Struggling Taxpayers that Assistance is Available

(TRENTON) – With income tax filing season about to get underway, and the prolonged federal government shutdown placing a financial strain on furloughed workers, the New Jersey Department of the Treasury wants to remind all taxpayers that the Division of Taxation stands ready to assist anyone experiencing hardship who may be struggling to make payments.

“Our Division of Taxation works year round to aid struggling taxpayers so that they don’t fall into arrears,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “Given the added financial strain that the federal shutdown is placing on many furloughed employees, we want to remind taxpayers that there is assistance out there for them. All they need to do is pick up the phone.”

According to the state Department of Labor, more than 1,350 claims for unemployment have already been filed by furloughed federal workers in New Jersey.

“All New Jersey taxpayers with outstanding tax debt experiencing any financial hardship are encouraged to contact the Division directly to arrange a payment plan and/or a possible abatement of penalties,” said Division of Taxation Acting Director John Ficara.

Taxation’s call center and seven walk-in Regional Information Centers are manned Monday through Friday by knowledgeable staff ready to provide assistance for each unique situation.

For assistance by phone, contact the Main Customer Service Center at: 609-292-6400. Hour of operation are:

• 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (except state holidays)
• 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays only

Seven Regional Information Centers are also located throughout the state for walk-in assistance, no appointment necessary. Hours are as follows:

• Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Please note: On the second Wednesday of each month, hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For a listing of Regional Information Center locations, visit:  https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/organization/ts-regional.shtml

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