Massachusetts Department of Revenue - Boston, MA

Department of Revenue Overview

Tax and Child Support Administration

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) is the state agency responsible for the fair and efficient administration of the Commonwealth's tax laws and the collection of revenues that fund public services. Headquartered at 100 Cambridge Street (the Saltonstall Building), the DOR manages the collection of personal income, corporate, sales, and use taxes. Beyond taxation, the agency plays a crucial societal role through its Child Support Services Division (CSSD), which assists families in establishing paternity, setting up support orders, and collecting child support payments. The DOR also includes the Division of Local Services, which supervises local taxation and finance, providing guidance to cities and towns to ensure sound fiscal management. With a focus on modernization, the DOR strongly encourages taxpayers to use MassTaxConnect, a comprehensive online portal for filing returns, making payments, and managing accounts securely 💻.

Taxpayer Services and Counters

While most interactions with the DOR can be handled online, the agency maintains a physical presence for those requiring in-person assistance. The Boston administrative office at 100 Cambridge Street houses the Commissioner's Office and specialized bureaus like the Office of Appeals and the Criminal Investigations Bureau. For direct taxpayer assistance, the DOR operates a public counter at this location where individuals can receive help with tax filings, resolve billing disputes, and ask questions about compliance. The staff provides support for resolving "marked" accounts (which prevent license renewal at the RMV) and setting up payment plans for overdue taxes. It is advisable to check the specific hours for the public counter, as they may differ from the general building hours, and bringing all relevant documentation is essential for a successful visit.

• Tax Administration: Processing income, sales, and corporate tax returns.
• Child Support Enforcement: Collecting and distributing support payments to families.
• Local Services: Overseeing municipal finance and property tax regulations.
• Audit & Investigation: Ensuring compliance and investigating tax fraud.
• Underground Storage Tank Program: Managing reimbursements for environmental cleanup.

Location and Security

The DOR headquarters is located in the redeveloped 100 Cambridge Street complex, situated near Government Center and the West End. As a state government facility, security is a priority. Visitors must enter through the main lobby and undergo security screening, which typically involves metal detectors and bag checks. A valid photo ID is required to obtain a visitor's pass. The building is professional and modern, sharing space with other state agencies and private tenants. Visitors should dress appropriately for a government office environment. The facility is fully accessible to persons with disabilities, with elevators and ADA-compliant restrooms available.

Transit and Access

Accessing 100 Cambridge Street is most convenient via public transportation. The building is just a few minutes' walk from the Bowdoin station (Blue Line) and the Government Center station (Green and Blue Lines). It is also within walking distance of Haymarket and Charles/MGH stations. For those driving, the building has an underground parking garage (accessible from Somerset Street), but it is a paid commercial facility with downtown Boston rates. Given the central location, traffic can be heavy, making the "T" the most reliable option for reaching the office on time.