Reaching the IRS has always been challenging. With the IRS workforce reduction continuing, many believe your odds of reaching a warm body to resolve a concern or answer questions may be dwindling.
For years, IRS phone lines have been overwhelmed, and even written correspondence has faced significant processing delays. Many taxpayers report frustration not only in getting through, but also in finding someone knowledgeable enough to resolve their issue. It’s not just an annoyance. It can be both legally and financially costly, potentially leading to missed deadlines and increased penalties.
Keep these tips in mind for when you need to reach the IRS:
Do not procrastinate. It’s human nature to put off tasks that aren’t fun, and nothing fits that description more than discussing tax issues with the IRS. However, when you receive a letter from the IRS, it is always crucial to act promptly. Many situations involve a very short 30-day window to respond. This includes appealing an audit, disputing a final notice before the IRS places a lien or levies your assets, adjusting a no-file determination, and others. Waiting for answers to questions could significantly strain this timeline.
Be prepared. Imagine trying and trying, and waiting and waiting, only to discover that you don’t have the necessary information in front of you to get an IRS representative on the phone. It happens all the time. The IRS asks that individuals have ready their and their joint filers’ Social Security numbers (SSN) and birthdates, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if applicable, filing status prior-year tax return, the tax return they’re calling about, and any correspondence (letters) the IRS has sent. If you’re calling about a deceased taxpayer, have a death certificate and either a court approval or IRS Form 56 Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship (for estate executors) ready. Also, know the questions you want to ask. Be very specific so that you can get the answers and details you need to move forward.
Consider enlisting help. A CPA can be your lifeline for several reasons. Not only may they be able to answer the question you have without having to contact the IRS, but CPAs also have access to the IRS Practitioner Priority Service (PPS) line, which provides priority access, dedicated assistance, and expedited issue resolution. Plus, with your authorization, a CPA can meet with the IRS and may even be able to negotiate a payment plan, penalty abatement, or settlement on your behalf. If you’re experiencing hardship, you may be able to access help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service; however, please note that they’re also facing staffing issues and delays.
Try different avenues. Search the internet, and you’ll find plenty of tips other taxpayers swear by to reach an IRS representative fast. We can’t tell you that any of them work better than others, but it doesn’t hurt to switch up the times you call (Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be busier days) and the methods you use to reach out. Check IRS online tools and resources to see if your questions can be answered without needing to make a call. You might also try scheduling an appointment with a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center office instead. Meeting in person—and even making a phone call to the IRS—can feel stressful, so remember that you can enlist a CPA’s help if needed.
Reaching the seemingly unreachable IRS can feel like a daunting task, but with prompt action, thorough preparation, and support, you can increase your chances of success.
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