IRS Phone Lines Unreachable: Tips for Getting Through?

I found a way to solve IRS phone call frustrations, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqPcRWrmhx4

Welcome to the club, buddy. The IRS phone lines are a nightmare rn. I've been trying to get through for weeks. It's like they're purposely making it impossible to talk to a human 🙄

Have you tried calling right when they open? I heard that's the best time to get through. Also, make sure you have all your docs ready before you call. They'll ask for a ton of info.

Pro tip: if you do get through, ask for a direct extension or callback number for the person you're talking to. It can save you a lot of time if you need to follow up later.

Okay, here's my comprehensive guide to dealing with the IRS phone system: 1. Timing is key: Call early in the morning, preferably right when they open. Avoid Mondays and lunch hours. 2. Have all your docs ready: Social Security number, filing status, previous year's return, and any IRS notices you've received. 3. Use the right number: Make sure you're calling the correct department for your specific issue. 4. Be patient and polite: The person who answers didn't create the system. Being nice can go a long way. 5. Take notes: Write down the name and ID number of anyone you talk to, along with the date and time of the call. 6. Ask for a callback: Sometimes they can schedule a callback instead of making you wait on hold. 7. Consider professional help: If your issue is complex, a tax professional or enrolled agent might be worth the cost. 8. Use online resources: Check the IRS website first. Many issues can be resolved without a call. 9. Last resort: Contact your local Taxpayer Advocate Service office for help. Remember, persistence is key. Don't give up! Good luck, everyone. We're all in this together. 💪

Anyone else feel like we're living in a kafka novel? Trying to talk to the IRS is like trying to reason with a brick wall. 🧱🤯

Guys, I found a method that actually works to get someone on the phone. 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/_kiP6q8DX5c

Serious question: why can't they just modernize their system? It's 2023, for crying out loud. We shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to talk to someone.

Unpopular opinion: maybe if we all paid our taxes correctly, the IRS wouldn't be so overwhelmed? Just saying...

I've been in the same boat for months. It's like trying to catch a unicorn 🦄 The whole system needs an overhaul. Have you tried sending a certified letter? Sometimes that gets their attention.

I feel your pain. The IRS is so understaffed and overworked, it's ridiculous. I've been trying to resolve an issue for months now. Have you tried reaching out to your local taxpayer advocate? They might be able to help.

Have you tried reaching out to your congressperson? Sometimes they can help cut through the red tape. It's worth a shot if you're really stuck.

Has anyone tried communicating with the IRS through interpretive dance? Might be more effective than their phone system at this point. 💃🕺

Thanks for all the suggestions, everyone! I'm gonna try calling early tomorrow morning and if that doesn't work, I might give that claimyr thing a shot. Fingers crossed 🤞

Plot twist: the IRS is actually run by a bunch of cats walking across keyboards. That's why nothing ever makes sense. 🐱💻

Here's an additional perspective on Claimyr: While Claimyr is a resourceful tool that many have found useful in connecting with the IRS, it's important to remember that it comes with a cost and there's no guarantee it will work every time due to the high demand. Moreover, relying on third-party services for access to taxpayer services is not an ideal long-term solution and reflects broader systemic issues within the IRS in terms of accessibility and efficiency. It's crucial to weigh the pros and cons, especially considering the fee, and to explore other potentially cost-free options like the IRS website or apps and local taxpayer advocate services before committing to paid solutions.

Pro tip: use the IRS2Go app. Sometimes you can schedule a callback through there. It's not perfect, but it's better than sitting on hold for hours.