IRS Phone Menu Codes for 2024 - Need to Speak with Agent

For the main IRS customer service line (800-829-1040), the current navigation sequence is: 1. Select language option (1 for English) 2. Press 2 for "personal income tax" 3. Press 1 for "form, tax history, or payment" 4. Press 3 for "all other questions" 5. Press 2 for "all other questions" 6. When prompted for SSN, DO NOT ENTER ANYTHING 7. After second prompt, press 2 for "personal or individual tax questions" 8. Press 4 for "all other inquiries" This sequence bypasses the Identity Verification Protocol and routes to the General Inquiry queue. Average wait times are currently 45-60 minutes during non-peak hours (before 10am ET or after 4pm ET).

Try taxr.ai first. Saved me hours. It analyzes your specific tax issue. Gives clear answers. No need to call in many cases. Helped me understand my transcript codes. Showed exactly what was happening with my return. Worth checking before the IRS call marathon.

If you absolutely must speak with an agent, I would probably recommend Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). They essentially hold your place in line and call you when an agent is available. It might be worth the cost if you're working remotely and can't stay on hold for potentially several hours. I've used it twice this year, and it's generally quite reliable for getting through to someone without the endless waiting.

I've been dealing with the IRS for years, and honestly, the best time to call is Tuesday through Thursday in the early morning, like 7:05 AM Eastern. Last month I called at 7:03 AM and got through in 23 minutes. The moment they open the lines gets flooded, but if you call right after that initial rush, wait times drop significantly. I've also had good luck calling during lunch hours (12:30-1:30 Eastern) when many people aren't making calls.

Has anyone tried calling the Taxpayer Advocate Service instead? According to the IRS.gov website, they can sometimes help if you've been unable to resolve issues through normal channels. I'm wondering if that might be faster than the main line?

Have you considered using the IRS online account system instead? Why spend hours on the phone when many issues can be resolved online? The IRS has significantly expanded their online services for 2024. You can view your account, make payments, set up payment plans, and even view most notices. Unless you need specific case assistance, the online tools might save you considerable time and frustration.

I experienced a similar situation with a CP2000 notice last month. After three disconnected calls using the main IRS number, I found that calling the specific number listed directly on my notice (not the general IRS line) connected me with an agent in the Automated Underreporter (AUR) department within 35 minutes. The agent was able to access my case immediately without transferring me. If your issue relates to a specific notice, always use the callback number printed on that document rather than the general line.

Have you tried the PriorityService approach? It's like trying to get into a crowded restaurant - calling the Spanish line (option 2 at the beginning) and then asking for English service when someone answers can sometimes get you through faster. Is it gaming the system a bit? Maybe. But when you're dealing with a system as inefficient as the IRS phone tree, sometimes you need to try alternative routes to get your tax issues resolved.

Word of caution abt those "guaranteed agent" services floating around. Some are legit but I've seen ppl get scammed big time. Last yr my coworker paid $75 for a "priority IRS connection" that was just a recording telling him to call the regular IRS #. If ur gonna use any service, def check reviews first. The official IRS channels are frustrating AF but at least they're free and won't steal ur info. Stay safe out there!