Getting assistance with your taxes can sometimes require direct communication. The IRS Phone Service is available to help taxpayers with various inquiries. To ensure a smooth and efficient call, it’s important to be prepared. This guide outlines what you need to know before you call the IRS phone service for assistance.
Before you dial, remember that IRS representatives are committed to protecting your privacy. Therefore, identity verification is a crucial first step before they can discuss any personal tax information with you. Having the necessary documents ready will streamline this process and allow the representative to assist you effectively.
Information You Need to Verify Your Identity
Depending on whether you are calling as an individual, a third party representing someone else, or on behalf of a deceased taxpayer, the required information will vary. Here’s a breakdown to help you gather everything beforehand:
For Individuals:
- Social Security Number (SSN) and Date of Birth: This is the primary identifier for individual taxpayers.
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): If you don’t have an SSN, have your ITIN ready.
- Filing Status: Know your filing status for the tax year in question (single, head of household, married filing jointly, married filing separately, or qualifying surviving spouse).
- Prior Year Tax Return: Having your previous year’s tax return can help with verification and answering certain questions.
- Tax Return in Question: Keep the tax return you are calling about handy.
- IRS Correspondence: If the IRS has sent you any notices or letters, have them available.
For Third Parties Calling on Behalf of Someone Else:
- Taxpayer’s Name, SSN or ITIN: You’ll need the taxpayer’s identifying information.
- Tax Return in Question: Be clear about which tax return you are calling about.
- Authorization: You must have either verbal or written authorization to discuss the account. Written authorization can be provided through Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization or Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative.
- Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) or Personal Identification Number: If applicable, have your PTIN or personal identification number ready.
For Third Parties Calling on Behalf of a Deceased Taxpayer:
- Death Certificate: Proof of the taxpayer’s passing is required.
- Court Approval Letter or IRS Form 56: For estate executors, you’ll need a court approval letter or IRS Form 56, Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship.
Understanding IRS Phone Service Wait Times
The wait time to speak with an IRS representative can vary depending on the time of year. It’s helpful to understand these fluctuations to plan your call effectively.
Filing Season (January – April):
- During the peak tax season, expect average wait times of around 3 minutes. However, some phone lines might experience longer delays.
- Mondays and Tuesdays typically have higher call volumes, as do periods around holiday weekends like Presidents Day and closer to the April tax filing deadline.
Post-Filing Season (May – December):
- After the tax filing rush, average wait times tend to increase to about 12 minutes. Some phone lines could still have extended wait times.
- For potentially shorter wait times, consider calling Wednesday through Friday.
To improve your experience during periods of high call volume, the IRS may offer a callback option. If wait times exceed 15 minutes and a representative is expected to be available within regular business hours, you might be given the choice to receive a return call instead of waiting on hold. This option is available for most toll-free lines.
Key IRS Phone Numbers for Different Needs
The IRS provides specific phone lines to address different taxpayer needs. Make sure you are calling the correct number for the most efficient service. All phone lines operate Monday through Friday, with hours based on local time (Alaska and Hawaii should follow Pacific Time; Puerto Rico lines are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time).
- 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 (Practitioner Priority Service): Practitioner Priority Service – 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time (requires valid third-party authorization)
- Non-profit Taxes: 877-829-5500 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time
- Estate and Gift Taxes (Form 706/709): 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: For taxpayers calling from outside the U.S., consult the International Services page for specific instructions.
- Hearing Impaired (TTY/TDD): 800-829-4059
By understanding the process for verifying your identity, being aware of potential wait times, and using the correct phone number for your needs, you can make your experience with the IRS phone service as efficient and helpful as possible.
