When to Call the IRS

The IRS is available from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The best time to call is early in the morning.

Be Prepared Before Calling

Before you call the IRS, make sure you have all of the information you need.

• Social Security Number and birth date for the taxpayer’s return (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you don’t have a SSN).
• Filing status – Single, Head of Household, Married Filing Joint, or Married Filing Separate
• The tax return you’re calling about, and also prior-year tax returns just in case they’re needed
• Any letters or notices that the IRS has sent you

How to Speak to Live Person at IRS

1. The IRS telephone number is 1-800-829-1040.
2. The first question the automated system will ask you is to choose your language.
3. Once you’ve set your language, do NOT choose Option 1 (regarding refund info). Choose option 2 for “Personal Income Tax” instead.
4. Next, press 1 for “form, tax history, or payment”.
5. Next, press 3 “for all other questions.”
6. Next, press 2 “for all other questions.”
7. When the system asks you to enter your SSN or EIN to access your account information, do NOT enter anything.
8. After it asks twice, you will be prompted with another menu.
9. Press 2 for personal or individual tax questions.
10. Finally, press 4 for all other inquiries. The system should then transfer you to an agent.

How to Speak with IRS at Local Office

If you can’t reach a real person over the phone using the above instructions, you should contact your local IRS office to setup an appointment to get help directly from an IRS agent. The Taxpayer Assistance Center operates by appointment only. Call the appointment phone number to make an appointment to meet with an IRS agent and speak in person at a local office.