How to call the IRS

• 1). Prepare all your tax forms, personal information and questions. They may ask questions about your identity before they help you. Also prepare specific questions so you can get better answers and avoid having to call again.
  
  
• 2). Determine which department to call. The IRS has different numbers for individuals, businesses, government agencies, etc. See the "Call an IRS Department" section in this article for more information.
  
  
• 3). Dial the appropriate number, listen to the automated operator, and press the appropriate buttons to advance to a live person. You may need to wait on hold for several minutes.
  
  

Call an IRS Department

• 1). Call 1-800-829-1040 for tax assistance for individuals. They operate Monday -- Friday, 7:00 a.m. -- 10:00 p.m. your local time.
  
  
• 2). Call 1-800-829-1954 for assistance with your tax refund. Have your Social Security number, filing status and exact refund amount ready.
  
  
• 3). Call 1-800-829-4933 for tax assistance for businesses. They operate Monday -- Friday, 7:00 a.m. -- 10:00 p.m. your local time.
  
  
• 4). Call 1-877-829-5500 for assistance for exempt organizations, retirement plan administrators, and government agencies. They operate Monday -- Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time.
  
  
• 5). Call 1-800-829-4059 for assistance for people with hearing impairments. They operate Monday -- Friday, 7:00 a.m. -- 10:00 p.m. your local time.
  
  
• 6). Call 1-800-908-4490 if you believe you have been the victim of identity theft. They operate Monday -- Friday, 8:00 a.m. -- 8:00 p.m. your local time.
  
  
• 7). Call the listing on the IRS International Services webpage (http://www.irs.gov/localcontacts/article/0,,id=101292,00.html) if you live outside the United States. Offices are available in France, Germany, United Kingdom and Puerto Rico.