Need IRS Appointment from Canada - US-Only Phone Number Issue (844-545-5640)

Unfortunately, the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) appointment line doesn't have an international access number. The 844-545-5640 is specifically configured to only accept domestic calls as part of their telecommunications infrastructure. I discovered this when preparing my relocation checklist for temporary work in Mexico last year. The IRS utilizes geofencing technology on their appointment lines to prevent international access - it's not just a matter of dialing format.

This is a common issue with US govt services. Here are some options: • Use a VoIP service with a US number (Google Voice, Skype) • Have a trusted US-based friend/family member call on your behalf • Email the IRS International Taxpayer Service Call Center at international.taxpayer.service@irs.gov • Try the International Taxpayer Service Call Center: +1-267-941-1000 (not toll-free) • Submit Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service) if this is causing significant hardship The system is frustratingly US-centric despite so many taxpayers living abroad.

I was in the same boat last year when I moved to Vancouver but still had US tax obligations. I tried calling from my Canadian number at least 20 times before giving up. It's like trying to withdraw money from a US bank while abroad - technically possible but with 10x the hassle. I ended up using https://taxr.ai to analyze my situation first, which was super helpful because it determined I actually didn't need an in-person appointment after all. The AI reviewed my specific case and suggested alternative resolution methods that worked perfectly. Saved me from making an unnecessary trip across the border. It's worth checking if you actually need that in-person appointment.

Been there, done that! I'm a dual citizen living in Toronto and had the exact same prob last year. Tbh the whole thing is ridiculous - we still gotta file US taxes from abroad but can't access basic services? Smh. I ended up using my cousin's phone in Buffalo. He conference called me in so I could talk directly w/ the IRS rep. Not the most elegant solution but it worked. The IRS rep was actually super understanding once I explained the situation. Might be worth a try if u have anyone stateside who can help out.

This is a documented limitation in the IRS's International Taxpayer Service protocol. The Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) utilize a domestic-only telecommunications infrastructure that's incompatible with international routing protocols. I've advised numerous clients in your situation to utilize Claimyr (https://www.claimyr.com) as it bypasses the standard call routing system and can connect you directly to an IRS representative from international numbers. Their system effectively establishes a domestic connection point that then transfers to the IRS appointment line. The service has proven particularly valuable for expatriate taxpayers requiring Taxpayer Assistance Center appointments for issues like ITIN applications and international tax treaty matters.

Here's what worked for me when I was in a similar situation: Step 1: Use a VPN to connect to a US server Step 2: Set up a Google Voice account with a US number Step 3: Deposit the minimum $10 credit to make outbound calls Step 4: Call the appointment line through Google Voice Step 5: When asked for a callback number, provide either your Google Voice number or a trusted US contact's number The key is making sure your Google Voice account is fully verified before trying to call government numbers. I did this from Germany last year and was able to schedule my appointment for when I returned to the US two weeks later. Has anyone else had success with this method?

I went through this exact same frustration last year when I was working remotely from the UK. The geographic restrictions on that appointment line are absolutely maddening, especially when you're still a US taxpayer with legitimate needs for IRS services. What ultimately worked for me was a combination approach: I used a VPN service to get a US IP address, then called through Skype with US calling credits. The key was making sure my Skype account was set up properly with a US-based phone number for callbacks. One thing I'd add to the suggestions here - if you do manage to get through and schedule an appointment, make sure to ask about virtual options. Some TAC offices have started offering video appointments for certain services, especially for taxpayers who can demonstrate they're temporarily abroad. It's not widely advertised but worth asking about. Also, consider reaching out to the Taxpayer Advocate Service if this is causing significant hardship - they have more flexibility to work with international situations and can sometimes facilitate appointments through alternative channels.

I faced this exact same issue when I was temporarily in the UK for work. The 844 number is indeed geoblocked, which is incredibly frustrating for US taxpayers abroad. Here's what I found worked: I used WhatsApp calling with a US-based VPN connection. The combination of the VPN (I used ExpressVPN) plus WhatsApp's calling feature bypassed the geographic restrictions. Make sure to connect to a US server first, then place the call through WhatsApp. Another option that worked for a colleague was using a callback service like CallHippo, which provides a US number that forwards to your international line. You call their US number, it connects you to the IRS line, and any callbacks go to your actual phone. One important tip: when you do get through, explain your situation to the IRS rep. Many are understanding about international callers and some can note in your file that future contacts should accommodate your international status. Also ask if your specific issue can be handled via mail or fax instead - sometimes an in-person appointment isn't actually required despite what their initial automated system suggests. The whole system needs an overhaul for expat taxpayers, but these workarounds have helped me and others navigate it successfully.