Tips for Communicating with IRS Agents Over the Phone

Tips for Talking to IRS Agents Over the Phone

Dealing with the IRS can be super stressful. Getting on the phone with an agent feels like the last thing you want to do. But sometimes you gotta talk to them to figure things out. I get it — I’ve been there too. This article has some tips I’ve learned that can make those phone calls less painful. Let’s get into it!

Before You Call

First things first, make sure calling them is actually needed. The IRS website irs.gov has a crazy amount of info that might answer your questions without having to talk to someone. If you’re not sure where to start looking on the site, try using the search bar – it’s pretty good. You can also check out the IRS phone assistance page which lists some of the main reasons people call.

If you do need to talk to an agent, get prepared first:

• Have your Social Security number, tax returns, notices from the IRS, etc handy before you call. Agents will likely ask for info from your returns.
• Write down your questions ahead of time. It’s easy to forget things when you’re on the phone.
• Call early in the day if you can. Wait times tend to be shorter in the morning.

Also, not every issue can be resolved over the phone. Agents can’t help with stuff like:

• Answering tax law questions
• Providing tax forms and publications
• Checking refund status if it’s been less than 21 days since you filed
• Complaints about the tax laws or your tax bill

If your question is about one of those topics, you’ll need to find the info another way like on irs.gov.

When You Get an Agent on the Phone

First, take a deep breath. It’s go time. Here are some tips for when you finally get an IRS agent on the phone:

• Get their name and ID number right away in case you need to reference the call later.
• Be cooperative and don’t lose your cool, even if you’re frustrated. It won’t help.
• Have your prepared questions and documents ready to go.
• Write down any important info they give you.
• If you need more time to gather documents, ask for a callback appointment later.
• Get details on next steps before hanging up.

Also, be very careful about what info you give out over the phone. IRS scammers try to get your personal info by pretending to be IRS agents. If you think a call seems suspicious, get their callback number and call them back through the IRS customer service number to verify who they are.

Other IRS Phone Numbers

The main IRS customer service number is 1-800-829-1040, but there are actually a bunch of other IRS phone numbers for specific situations:

• Amended returns: 1-866-464-2050
• Tax-exempt organizations: 1-877-829-5500
• Excise tax questions: 1-866-699-4096
• Reporting tax fraud: 1-800-829-0433

Check out the full list on the IRS phone assistance page. Using the right number for your issue can help you get to the right person faster.

If You Still Can’t Get Through

The IRS phone lines get absolutely slammed during tax season, so you might wait on hold forever trying to talk to someone. If you just can’t get through, try these options instead:

• Use the IRS callback service to have them call you back later when wait times are lower.
• Visit a local IRS office for in-person help.
• Hire a tax pro to handle the IRS communication for you.

The IRS callback service can be a lifesaver during peak times. Basically you call the IRS, opt for a callback, and an agent will phone you back later instead of waiting on hold. Give it a try if you’re having no luck on the main lines.

Final Tips

Talking to the IRS on the phone is no fun, but hopefully these tips make it a little less painful. Here are some final recommendations:

• Take notes during the call.
• Follow up any verbal agreements with written confirmation.
• Keep a file of any letters or notices related to your case.
• If you aren’t getting results, ask for a manager.
• Know your rights as a taxpayer and don’t let them push you around.

Dealing with the IRS takes patience and perseverance. But you can get through it with good preparation and a cooperative attitude. Let me know if you have any other IRS phone tips!