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IRS phone number: how to contact and where to talk to a real person on the helpline?

The Internal Revenue Service has expanded what taxpayers can do online via different tools, but sometimes you need to talk to a real person. Here’s how…

Greg Heilman
Greg Heilman
How to talk to a real person from the IRS

Filing out tax forms can be complicated and while the Internal Revenue Service has expanded its chest of online tools filers can use, sometimes you need to speak to a real person. Fortunately, the IRS has beefed up its staffing ahead of the 2023 tax season to help with those inquiries over the phone.

Taxpayers may also make an appointment to speak to a customer representative in-person at the hundreds of Tax Assistance Centers around the nation. However, depending on what kind of queries you have, the first option is to download and try the IRS2GO Mobile app or using the tools available online.

How to contact the IRS hotline to talk to a real person

With the additional staffing, wait times have been reduced on the IRS hotlines, with an average of 13 minutes during the filing season (January - April) and 19 minutes post-filing season (May - December). However, the agency warns that wait times may be longer depending on which service line you call. Also, those calling any of the hotlines should be aware that on Monday and Tuesday wait times are generally longer.

  • 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

For other specific telephone numbers for the IRS check their webpage on telephone assistance.

Speaking to an IRS customer service representative face-to-face

Face-to-face enquiries are also available at Taxpayers Assistance Centers (TACs) but you’ll need to make an appointment. You can find the contact information for your local office by entering your 5-digit Zip Code here. There are specific TACs that handle in-person document review, the IRS provides a list.

Note that the agency requests that all individuals attending TAC for personal enquiries maintain a distance of 6 feet from others. The IRS also recommends using its online tools for faster service.

Have all of your personal information ready

Once you get through, you will need to verify your identity. Make sure you have all of your relevant documents and personal information on hand, including:

You may also be asked about your tax filing status: single, head of household, married and filing joint tax return, or married filing separate tax return.

Details of your tax return from last year may be required and possibly other previous years.