How to get a live agent on the phone at the IRS

If you're having trouble getting a live agent on the phone at the IRS you are not alone.  It's extremely frustrating when you have tax questions and need to speak to someone at the IRS.  Here is exactly how to get a live agent on the phone at the IRS.

The phone number for the IRS is 1-800-829-1040, and they are available from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. local time, Monday - Friday.  Calling early in the morning and during the week on Tuesday - Thursday is best but sometimes you just need to get someone on the phone now.

Either way, don't rip your hair out with endless automations and dead ends.

Before you make a call to the IRS make sure you have any necessary documents you want to discuss and a pen and paper to take notes.

The first question the automated system will ask you is to choose your language.  To continue in English, Press 1.

Once you’ve set your language, DO NOT choose Option 7 (economic impact payment) or 1 (refund).

Press 2 for “For answers about you personal income taxes...”

Next, press 1 for “For questions about form you have already submitted or a payment...”

Next, press 3 “for all other questions about your tax history or payment.”

Next, press 2 “for all other questions about your tax history or payment.”

Transfer music..."please wait..."

DO NOT enter your SSN or EIN to access your account information.

After it asks you to enter your SSN or EIN twice, you will be prompted with another menu.

Next, press 2 for “personal or individual tax related questions”

Finally, press 4 for "all other inquiries." The system should then transfer you to an agent.

More transfer music..."please wait..."

Get ready to take notes and write down the IRS agents name and ID number, time and date.  Good notes are key to getting difficult problems fixed.

If any of the above prompts change let me know so we can keep this page updated.