Having just passed tax season, it certainly might have been intimidating and overwhelming when you're not a tax expert, but the IRS is there to guide you. There are diverse ways you can access the agency if you have questions about how to complete your tax return, if you want to check the status of your tax refund, or if you need help from the IRS for other tax purposes.
IRS Staff members are generally available to help you with any questions or issues that may arise so that you can complete and submit your taxes with as little hassle as possible. However, the IRS has indicated that it is not yet operating at full capacity with the entire team due to the coronavirus pandemic. Hence, this list of other options to contact the IRS for tax resolution help.
Connect with the IRS online
One of the most authentic ways to get the much-needed information is directly from the IRS website. You can get virtually any form or publication here.
You'll find plenty of information at your fingertips, including answers to frequently asked questions, changes in tax laws, and even planning calculators. It is not a substitute for direct speech with a tax expert, but the website can give you some clarity when you need basic tax questions answered.
As for the tax refund you expect, a special tool is at your disposal to monitor your condition. Click on "Where's my refund?" and click on "Check refund status." The IRS strongly recommends the use of electronic assistance options.
Contact the IRS by phone.
The next best option is your phone if you need to contact the IRS but don't have a computer handy. The IRS offers toll-free numbers to help you, depending on your situation:
800-829-1040 for people with concerns about any personal tax issue, available from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time
800-829-4059 for hearing-impaired taxpayers, without time constraints
800-829-4933 for companies with tax problems, available between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time
866-699-4083 for property tax and donation matters, available 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. New York time
866-699-4096 for special tax matters, available 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time
877-829-5500 for tax inquiries from non-profit organizations, available 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time
The IRS said live phone support remains limited due to the coronavirus pandemic. So, you can expect long waiting times when contacting an IRS staff.
You can also contact the Taxpayer Advocacy Service (TAS) if you have tax issues that you cannot resolve. Their website provides a search tool to help you find an office in your state, as well as contact information. All face-to-face sites remain closed, but you can contact them at 877-777-4778.
Wait times can be significant, especially during the tax season months of February, March, and April.
Get in touch with the IRS by mail.
The IRS doesn't recommend it on its website, but you can still submit tax forms and paper payments if you don't have another option. And you can send traditional mail correspondence (a sealed letter sent by post) if you don't mind waiting a while for a response.
The most efficient way to contact the IRS team by mail is to contact the IRS district director or your local tax assistance center. You will have to wait for at least thirty days for a response. Many responses may take 45 days or more.
And don't forget that sending your tax return may delay the processing of your refund. Wait a few weeks for the refund to be issued on a printed check. It is likely to take three weeks or less if you file electronically and choose to receive the refund by direct deposit.
Visit your local IRS office.
The IRS operates local offices called Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs), where you can ask questions and receive help. You can visit the IRS website to find a Taxpayer Assistance Center office near you.
The IRS started reopening TACs in June 2020, but you can only visit them on a scheduled basis. Call 844-545-5640 to find out if the nearest TAC is open and to reserve a time.
You can use the list on the IRS website to determine the schedule and policies for your preferred facility. Multilingual service is available in all offices.
Be prepared to wait if you visit a local IRS office during peak tax season. It may be worth browsing through all the means available online to find the information and assistance you need first.
IRS forms by fax
The IRS stopped sending faxes and sending transcripts in June 2019. Receiving forms and instructions by fax is not the best way to send confidential information, but some documents can still be faxed.
Fax the verification notification number listed on your CP06 if you need to submit the necessary supporting documents when verifying the tax return.
Conclusion
Contact the IRS immediately if you owe a tax bill and cannot pay it in full. You must send the return immediately before the submission deadline and pay as much as possible. The IRS can then help you draft an installment agreement to pay off the balance.
You can easily apply online. This prompt communication can help minimize penalties and interest on what you owe.
If you are in doubt, consult a tax professional such as UNIFIRST FINANCIAL & TAX CONSULTANTS to assist you.
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