US Treasury Department - New York, NY

US Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Office Overview and Mission

The US Department of the Treasury maintains a significant presence in New York City through its bureaus, most notably the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Located at 290 Broadway in the Ted Weiss Federal Building, this office serves as the Northeast Area Office for the Small Business/Self-Employed (SB/SE) Division. While the Treasury Department as a whole is responsible for promoting economic prosperity and ensuring the financial security of the United States, this specific field office focuses on tax administration and compliance. It plays a critical role in educating and assisting small business owners and self-employed individuals with their tax obligations. The office is part of the federal government's extensive infrastructure in Lower Manhattan, operating within a secure federal facility that houses multiple agencies.

Key Services and Operations

This facility primarily functions as an administrative and compliance hub rather than a walk-in service center for general taxpayer assistance. The Small Business/Self-Employed Division addresses the unique needs of approximately 57 million small business owners and self-employed taxpayers nationwide. Services and functions coordinated from this location include:

• Audit and Examination: IRS agents conducting examinations of small business returns to ensure compliance with the tax code.
• Collection Activities: Revenue officers working to resolve tax delinquencies, secure unfiled returns, and manage complex collection cases.
• Specialized Tax Support: Providing guidance on excise taxes, employment taxes, and other specific regulatory requirements affecting businesses.
• Outreach and Education: Engaging with the tax practitioner community and business organizations to clarify new tax laws and reporting requirements.

The Ted Weiss Federal Building

The office is situated in the Ted Weiss Federal Building, a prominent 34-story structure in the Civic Center district. Completed in the early 1990s, the building is notable for its modern architecture and connection to the African Burial Ground National Monument, which lies adjacent to the site. The building serves as a major federal workplace in the city, housing not only the IRS but also the EPA and the GAO. Its location on Broadway, just north of City Hall Park, places it at the nexus of federal, state, and city government operations in New York.

Security and Access Information

As a federal facility, 290 Broadway enforces strict security protocols. Visitors must present valid, government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport) to enter the building. All entrants are subject to airport-style screening, including metal detectors and X-ray inspection of bags and personal items. Prohibited items include weapons of any kind (firearms, knives, pepper spray), sharp objects, and potential hazards. Visitors are advised to arrive early to allow time for this process. Unlike Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs), this administrative office typically operates by appointment or for specific official business; it is not a general help desk for filing individual tax returns.

Payment and Administrative Policies

The Treasury Department has moved away from cash transactions at its field offices to ensure safety and efficiency. If a visit involves a payment (such as for a specific penalty or fee), cash is generally not accepted. Payments are typically made via personal check, cashier's check, or money order made payable to the United States Treasury. Electronic payment options through the online EFTPS system are highly encouraged for businesses. Visitors attending meetings or audits should bring all relevant documentation, notices, and identification to facilitate their visit.