Guide to IRS Customer Service and Phone Numbers

The main IRS phone number is 800-829-1040, but that’s not the only IRS number you can call for help or to talk to a live person. Below, we've compiled a list of other IRS phone numbers to try so you can reach the people you need.

You can call the main IRS phone number Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. The agency's average telephone service wait time is three minutes during filing season (January through April) and 12 minutes during the off-season (May through December).

Call volume may be higher on Mondays and Tuesdays, around Presidents Day and in the weeks leading up to the tax deadline. Once tax season is over, you can expect shorter wait times on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays^[0]

If you need assistance with basic services, such as tracking your refund or looking up your amended tax return status, the IRS website also offers many self-service tools that can help.

» MORE: How to find an IRS tax office near you

If you have a question about any of the topics below, one of these lesser-known IRS phone numbers might get you help faster. We've also included links to our articles on a number of topics, which might save you a call.

For tax issues that you may not be able to get help with online or by phone, you can visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center near you. These local IRS offices are typically open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You'll generally need to schedule an appointment beforehand, but walk-in assistance may be available in some areas.

You can also visit your local Taxpayer Advocate Service, which is an independent organization within the IRS that can help people with tax problems they can't resolve on their own.

» MORE: How to find an IRS tax office near you

Once you're on the line with an IRS telephone assistor, you'll need to verify your identity to proceed. Make sure to have the following information handy before you call:

• Social Security number or ITIN.

• Date of birth.

• Filing status.

• Prior-year return and the tax return you're inquiring about.

• Any IRS correspondence you've received (via email or your online account).

If you're calling on behalf of someone else or someone who is deceased, you'll need to have a few extra things gathered in addition to the above, including verbal/written authorization, a valid Form 8821 or Form 2848, and relevant paperwork such as a death certificate or court letter^[0]

The IRS encourages people who have simple questions to start on its website, IRS.gov. The agency says its online resources are "the quickest and easiest option for help."

And if you're looking for certain information or records, such as your payment history or a tax transcript, setting up an online account with the agency can help you quickly gain access to these documents. You can also make changes to payment plans, or schedule or cancel payments through your online account^[0]

If it's a state tax issue you need help with, tap to see a list of phone numbers for state tax departments.

You can call every IRS phone number you want, but the IRS will rarely call you. It initiates most contacts, including demands for payment, through regular mail from the U.S. Postal Service. In very rare circumstances (such as those involving subpoenas and summonses), the agency may stop by for an announced visit. But if the agency needs to get in contact with you about any of the below, they will reach out by mail to schedule an appointment first.

• A taxpayer has an overdue tax bill.

• To secure a delinquent tax return.

• To secure a delinquent employment tax payment.

Avoid tax scams. The IRS does not: