Working with federal agencies can be timeconsuming, confusing, and even frustrating. If you are working with a federal agency to seek information or resolve a problem, and feel you've been mistreated or simply are not getting a response in a timely fashion, my office may be able to help you out.
My staff and I are aware of how challenging delays and a lack of response can be when seeking federal assistance, which is why my office is equipped with casework experts with the knowledge to help you out. While they may not be able to guarantee you a favorable outcome, they will do their best to ensure you receive a fair and timely response to any problem you're struggling with. My office can help you navigate the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, Medicare and Medicaid, passports, and other federal agency issues.
Most recently, we've been experiencing an influx of requests for passport help. During the pandemic, many people put their travel plans on hold. Now that most everywhere is back open, and travel restrictions are going away, more and more people are traveling abroad. As summer approaches, our friends and neighbors are realizing that they need to renew or apply for passports, and that increased volume is leading to delays.
In March, the Department of State announced that the processing times for U.S. passport applications had increased. Routine processing is now taking 10-13 weeks, and expedited processing, which costs an additional $60, is taking 7-9 weeks. This does not include the initial mailing time to the agency or the door-to-door time it takes to receive your passport. If you plan to travel internationally, you must apply for or renew your passport at least four months in advance. If you have any questions about your application or are hitting roadblocks in the process, my office may be able to help you, but be sure to contact us as soon as possible!
My staff may also be able to help you with IRS-related issues or answer any questions you have. In fact, out of all the casework my office works on, IRS-related casework is the third highest in volume. As tax season is upon us, my office knows this process can be complicated, and everyone's tax situation is unique. We work with the IRS regularly, and will do all we can to help.
As our state faces unprecedented challenges and uncertainty following the tornadoes and severe storms last week, the IRS has announced that individuals or businesses impacted by the storms are eligible for tax relief, and now have until July 31st to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. To learn more about tax relief or determine eligibility, you can visit the IRS website or call the IRS disaster hotline at 866-562-5227. If you run into any issues with your taxes this season, you can contact my office for assistance. Before you do so, you will need to complete a few documents and follow specific instructions, so be sure to visit westerman.house. gov/services/help-federalagency for more information.
Constituent service is my top priority as Congressman for the great 4th District of Arkansas. My staff and I are always just a phone call away – we are here and ready to serve you. You should always feel free to contact us. You can visit Westerman.house.gov/ contact to request assistance. If you have received casework assistance from my office, feel free to call and give us an update!
