Finding the right IRS phone number for customer service can be challenging. This guide provides essential information, including required documents and estimated wait times, to help you prepare for your call.
What to Expect When Calling the IRS
Before dialing the Irs Phone Number Customer Service line, understand that representatives must verify your identity to discuss personal information. Gathering necessary documents beforehand will expedite the process.
Individuals Calling the IRS
Have the following information readily available:
- Social Security Number (SSN) and birth date
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you don’t have an SSN
- Filing status (single, head of household, married filing jointly, etc.)
- Prior-year tax return
- Current tax return you’re calling about
- Any IRS correspondence you’ve received
Third Parties Calling on Behalf of Someone Else
If you’re calling on behalf of another taxpayer, you’ll need:
- The taxpayer’s name, SSN, or ITIN
- The tax return you’re inquiring about
- Verbal or written authorization (Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization or Form 2848, Power of Attorney)
- Your Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) or personal identification number
Calling for a Deceased Taxpayer
When calling about a deceased taxpayer, provide:
- Death certificate
- Court approval letter or IRS Form 56, Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship (for estate executors)
IRS Phone Number Customer Service Wait Times
Anticipate potential wait times when calling the IRS.
Filing Season (January – April)
- Average wait time: ~3 minutes (can be longer on certain lines)
- Expect longer waits on Mondays, Tuesdays, Presidents Day weekend, and near the April tax deadline.
Post-Filing Season (May – December)
- Average wait time: ~12 minutes (can be longer on certain lines)
- Shorter wait times typically occur Wednesday through Friday.
IRS Customer Service Phone Numbers and Operating Hours
The IRS provides various phone numbers for different needs:
- Individuals: 800-829-1040 (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time)
- Businesses: 800-829-4933 (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time)
- Tax Professionals: Contact Practitioner Priority Service with valid authorization (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time)
- Non-profit Taxes: 877-829-5500 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time)
- Estate and Gift Taxes: 866-699-4083 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern time)
- Excise Taxes: 866-699-4096 (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time)
- Overseas Callers: Refer to the International Services page on IRS.gov
- Hearing Impaired Callers: TTY/TDD 800-829-4059
The IRS offers a callback option during high call volume periods, potentially avoiding extended hold times. This service is available for most toll-free numbers when wait times exceed 15 minutes and a representative can return your call during regular business hours. Remember to adjust for time zone differences; Alaska and Hawaii residents should follow Pacific Time, and Puerto Rico lines operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. Having the necessary information before you call the IRS phone number customer service line will ensure a smoother and more efficient experience.
