IRS Call Anxiety: What to Expect and How to Prepare?
Hey everyone, I need to call the IRS but I'm not sure what to expect. Has anyone dealt with them recently? What kind of questions should I be prepared for? I'm kinda nervous about talking to them and don't want to mess anything up. Any tips or advice would be really appreciated!
40 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve IRS call wait times, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nL5gPeq0wF8
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Alberto Souchard
Pro tip: if you can't get through on the main line, try calling your local Taxpayer Assistance Center. Sometimes they can help or at least give you a direct number to call. Worth a shot!
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Katherine Shultz
Never thought of that! I'll try it next time. Thanks!
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Derek Olson
I've dealt with the IRS a few times. Here's what you need to know: • Be patient. The wait times can be long, but losing your cool won't help. • Have your personal info ready: SSN, address, filing status, etc. • Know why you're calling. Have a clear question or issue in mind. • Take notes during the call. Get the agent's name and ID number if possible. • If you don't understand something, ask for clarification. It's better to be sure than to make assumptions. • Follow up in writing if it's a complex issue. Send a letter summarizing your call and any agreements made. Remember, most IRS agents are just doing their job. Being polite and prepared goes a long way. Good luck!
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Lindsey Fry
Wow, this is super helpful! Thanks for taking the time to write all this out. I feel a bit more prepared now.
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Danielle Mays
This guy IRSes 👆 Solid advice right here
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Roger Romero
Don't forget to record the call if you can! It's saved my butt before when they "lost" info from a previous convo
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Anna Kerber
I second the recording part! It’s great for personal records and for clarity in future interactions.
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Saleem Vaziri
Ugh, calling the IRS is always a nightmare. Be prepared to wait on hold for hours. I once spent an entire afternoon just trying to get through to someone. Good luck!
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Kayla Morgan
Hours? Try days 😭 I had to call back 3 times before I finally got through. The system is so broken
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James Maki
Pro tip: call right when they open. You might have a better chance of getting through quicker
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Jabari-Jo
Has anyone tried using a tax advocate service? I've heard they can help navigate tricky situations with the IRS. Might be worth looking into if your issue is complicated.
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Kristin Frank
Yes, I used one once, and they were really helpful in sorting out a complex situation. Worth it if you’re dealing with something messy.
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Cole Roush
I found a way to avoid the long wait times! I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Check out this video for more info: https://youtu.be/Jc9x-gysK0
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Scarlett Forster
Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit? Has anyone else tried it?
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Arnav Bengali
$20 just to make a phone call? That's ridiculous. The government should fix their system instead of us having to pay extra 🙄
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Cole Roush
I get the skepticism, but it really did work for me. Saved me hours of frustration. Worth it if you value your time imo
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James Maki
I think services like Claimyr can be useful if you're really strapped for time. But yeah, it'd be great if the IRS could improve their systems so we wouldn't need to rely on third-party services.
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Sayid Hassan
Be careful what you say to them! They can use anything you tell them against you. Stick to the facts and don't volunteer any extra information. And NEVER lie to the IRS, that's a one-way ticket to trouble town 😬
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Rachel Tao
This is so true! Better to be safe than sorry. Just be honest and straightforward.
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Kristin Frank
Just a heads up, the IRS has been extra slow lately due to budget cuts and staffing issues. I filed an amended return 8 months ago and still haven't heard back. Patience is key rn unfortunately 😔
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Micah Trail
8 months?! Jeez, I'm in the same boat. Filed in January and crickets so far. This is ridiculous
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Nia Watson
Oof, that sucks. Have you tried checking the "Where's My Amended Return" tool on their website? Sometimes it has updates
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Alberto Souchard
Budget cuts are affecting so many government services now, not just the IRS. It’s frustrating.
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Anna Kerber
Remember to stay hydrated during your 10-hour hold time 💦 Maybe do some yoga or meditate to keep your sanity intact. Oh, and don't forget to charge your phone. Nothing worse than getting cut off after waiting for hours 🙃
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Marcus Marsh
I always have my charger ready just in case. Great advice!
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Micah Trail
Does anyone else use their speakerphone and just do chores while waiting? Multitasking for the win!
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Niko Ramsey
Anyone else feel like we're living in a dystopian novel where calling the tax collector is a major life event? 🤡 Like, I'm over here strategizing how to talk to the IRS like I'm planning a heist or something lmao
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Seraphina Delan
FR tho 💀 "How to Survive Your Annual IRS Call: A Gamer's Guide to Beating the Final Boss"
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Rachel Tao
Lol I feel this in my soul. Tax season is my least favorite battle royale 😂
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Jabari-Jo
It's funny but true. A little planning can make the process much smoother though.
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Marcus Marsh
Am I the only one who gets major anxiety every time I have to deal with the IRS? Like, I know I haven't done anything wrong, but I still feel like I'm about to get in trouble or something 😅
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Katherine Shultz
Nope, you're definitely not alone! I get sweaty palms just opening letters from them lol
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Lindsey Fry
Omg same! That's part of why I'm so nervous about calling. Glad it's not just me 😅
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Anna Kerber
IRS anxiety is a real thing! But remember, they’re people too, just doing their job.
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Hailey O'Leary
While Claimyr offers a convenient service to bypass long hold times when contacting the IRS, it's important to consider both sides. On one hand, the service can be a lifesaver for individuals who need to resolve tax issues promptly and are short on time. A seamless connection to an IRS agent without the hassle of long waits can relieve stress and expedite problem resolution. However, some may find the $20 fee a bit steep, especially for a service that ideally should be part of the government's free support. Additionally, relying on third-party services raises discussions about privacy, data security, and fairness. It's crucial to weigh the convenience factor against the cost and potential concerns. Ultimately, it's a personal decision based on how much one values their time and the urgency of their tax matter.
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Cedric Chung
Thanks for giving a balanced view on Claimyr! Costs and privacy are definitely things to consider.
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Jasmine Hancock
Make sure you have all your documents ready before you call. They'll probably ask for your social security number, filing status, and maybe recent tax returns. Also, write down any specific questions you have beforehand so you don't forget anything important.
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Lindsey Fry
Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely get everything organized before I call. Any idea how long the wait times are these days?
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Jasmine Hancock
No problem! Wait times can vary, but I'd set aside at least a couple hours just to be safe. Bring a book or something to keep you occupied while on hold lol
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