IRS Phone Lines: Frequent Numbers & Hours
When you need help with your taxes or have questions about IRS notices, knowing the right IRS phone numbers and their hours of operation can save you time and frustration. Here's a guide to the most commonly used IRS phone lines and when to call.
Individual Taxpayer Assistance: 1-800-829-1040
For general questions about individual tax returns, payments, and notices.
Business Tax Assistance: 1-800-829-4933
For questions related to business taxes, including payroll and excise taxes.
Identity Protection Specialized Unit: 1-800-908-4490
For issues related to identity theft and verification, including IRS 5071C or CP05 notices.
Automated Refund Hotline: 1-800-829-1954
Check the status of your tax refund.
Taxpayer Advocate Service: 1-877-777-4778
Independent organization to help resolve problems with the IRS.
Collections Department: 1-800-829-7650
For questions about tax debts, payment plans, and collection notices.
Appeals Office: 1-877-457-5055
For questions about appealing IRS decisions.
Most IRS phone lines operate:
| Service | Hours | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Taxpayer Assistance | 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Monday-Friday |
| Business Tax Assistance | 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Monday-Friday |
| Identity Protection Unit | 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Monday-Friday |
| Automated Refund Hotline | 24 hours | 7 days a week |
| Taxpayer Advocate Service | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Monday-Friday |
Tip: Calling early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid long wait times. Wait times are typically shortest on Wednesday-Thursday and highest on Monday and during lunch hours.
- Have your tax documents, Social Security number, and notice numbers handy before calling
- Be patient—wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January-April)
- Call from a quiet location where you can speak privately
- Avoid sharing personal information unless you initiated the call to an official IRS number
- Use official IRS numbers only to avoid scams
- Consider calling later in the week (Wednesday-Thursday) for shorter wait times
- Use the IRS website for common questions to avoid calling altogether
- Take notes during your call, including the representative's name and ID number
- Follow up in writing if you receive important instructions or information
Warning: The IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information. Be wary of callers claiming to be from the IRS who demand immediate payment or ask for credit card numbers over the phone.
To make your IRS call more efficient, have these items ready:
Personal Information:
- Social Security numbers and birth dates for yourself and family members
- Your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you have one
- Filing status (Single, Head of Household, Married Filing Jointly, etc.)
Tax Return Information:
- Copy of the tax return in question
- Any IRS notices or letters you've received
- Any correspondence you've sent to the IRS
Financial Information:
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit or payments
- Income documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)
- Records of any payments you've made to the IRS
If you prefer not to call the IRS or experience long wait times, consider these alternatives:
Online Resources:
- IRS.gov: The official website has answers to most common questions
- Where's My Refund?: Check your refund status online
- Online Payment Agreement: Set up payment plans without calling
- Get Transcript: View your tax records online
In-Person Help:
- Local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers: Schedule appointments for in-person help
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Free tax help for qualifying taxpayers
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE): Specialized help for seniors
Written Correspondence:
- Respond to notices by mail with requested documentation
- Keep copies of all correspondence for your records
- Send mail via certified mail with return receipt requested
Need Help Communicating with the IRS?
Navigating IRS phone lines and notices can be overwhelming. Long wait times and complex automated systems can make it difficult to get the help you need.
At KARME Tax Services, we:
• Assist with IRS communications on your behalf
• Help interpret IRS notices and letters
• Offer support when dealing with IRS identity verification
• Handle difficult conversations with IRS representatives
Call KARME today at 972-519-0041 or schedule your consultation online. Let us help you communicate effectively with the IRS.