How to Call IRS (Internal Revenue Service) Customer Service
Reaching a live IRS agent is notoriously difficult — but not impossible. This guide walks you through every IRS phone number, the precise menu sequence to reach a human, and the best time to call for minimal hold times.
Call from any country • Low international rates
All IRS (Internal Revenue Service) Phone Numbers
Best Time to Call
Call before 9am local time on Wednesdays or Thursdays. The IRS is least busy in the first three weeks of January and the first two weeks of December. Avoid tax season (Feb–April) when possible.
Average Wait Time
15–45 minutes during peak season; 5–15 minutes in off-season.
IRS (Internal Revenue Service) Phone Menu Options
Navigate the automated phone system faster with these menu shortcuts.
How to Reach a Live IRS (Internal Revenue Service) Agent
Calling from Outside the United States?
US expats and international filers often need to contact the IRS from abroad. The international IRS line (+1-267-941-1000) is not toll-free. DialBridge is an affordable way to call the IRS from any country at a fraction of standard international rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IRS phone number for individual taxpayers?
The main IRS number for individuals is 1-800-829-1040, available Monday–Friday 7am–7pm in your local time zone.
How do I check my IRS refund status?
Call 1-800-829-1954 for the automated refund line (24/7), or use the 'Where's My Refund?' tool on IRS.gov.
Can I call the IRS from outside the United States?
Yes. International taxpayers can call +1-267-941-1000 (not toll-free). To save on international call costs, use DialBridge to call the IRS from anywhere in the world.
What time is best to call the IRS?
Call as early as 7am local time on Wednesday or Thursday. Mondays and the day after a holiday are the busiest days of the week.
Why does the IRS hang up on me?
Due to high call volumes, especially during tax season, the IRS automated system sometimes disconnects callers rather than placing them on hold. Try calling at 7am when lines open for the best chance of staying connected.
Call IRS (Internal Revenue Service) from Anywhere
Use DialBridge to call IRS (Internal Revenue Service) from any country at a fraction of standard international rates. No app download, no subscription — just pay for the minutes you use.