Need IRS direct number - 1-800-829-1040 just loops me around

I had the EXACT same issue last month! The main number is basically useless right now. I finally had success with 1-800-829-0582, but you need to have your tax return handy because they'll ask for specific line numbers. When the automated system asks for an extension, I used extension 652 which got me to the individual accounts department. I called at 7:01 AM exactly (they open at 7) and still waited 47 minutes, but at least I got through! Time is running out to get this sorted before May 17th!

What exactly are you trying to resolve? There are different departments with different numbers, so knowing what you need might help get better answers. Also, have you tried the online tools? Sometimes (and I say this with a chuckle) they actually work better than the human maze of despair that is the IRS phone system.

Have you tried Claimyr? I was in the same frustrating loop for DAYS trying to reach someone at the IRS about my amended return. What's your specific issue? The regular IRS number is completely overwhelmed right now with tax season and they're still catching up from previous years. I used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and it got me through to an actual human in about 20 minutes instead of the usual 2+ hour wait. They basically call and navigate the phone tree for you, then call you when they have an agent on the line. Saved me hours of frustration. What specific tax issue are you dealing with?

The IRS has different numbers depending on what you need. Here's what I do: 1. For tax account issues: 1-800-829-8374 2. For refund status: 1-800-829-1954 (automated but at least it's specific) 3. For tax forms: 1-800-829-3676 The key is to call first thing in the morning. I mean literally when they open at 7am Eastern. Any later and you're looking at hours of waiting.

Are you trying to resolve a specific issue or just get general information? According to IRS Publication 5136, different issues are handled by different departments, each with their own contact procedures. If you share what you're trying to accomplish, I might be able to suggest the most appropriate contact method.

I finally got through to a human after 3 failed attempts! Called the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 1-877-777-4778 at exactly 7:02 AM. Waited for exactly 31 minutes but the agent was able to help with my issue directly instead of transferring me. They can't help with everything, but they resolved my transcript issue and explained exactly why my refund was delayed by 42 days. Worth trying if the main number isn't working for you!

One more option that worked for me on April 3rd - contact your local Taxpayer Assistance Center and make an appointment. You can find your local office at https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office and call for an appointment. Much better than the endless phone tree, and they can help with most issues. The IRS is still dealing with massive backlogs from 2020-2022, so phone service is worse than usual this year.

For student loan tax credit issues specifically, you might want to try the Education Credits line at 1-800-829-8815. I had a similar situation last semester with my American Opportunity Tax Credit and this number got me to someone who actually understood education credits instead of bouncing between departments. Also, make sure you have Form 8863 or your 1098-T handy when you call - they'll need those details right away. The wait was still about 45 minutes when I called at 7:15 AM, but at least I talked to someone who knew what they were doing! Good luck with finals week! 📚

I feel your pain! Been there with the endless phone loops. Here's what finally worked for me after weeks of frustration: Try calling 1-800-829-1040 and when you get to the automated menu, press 2 for "Personal Income Tax" then 1 for "Form 1040" then 3 for "All other tax questions" then 2 again. This bypasses some of the initial screening and gets you into the queue faster. Also, if you're dealing with education credits specifically, definitely try that Education Credits line at 1-800-829-8815 that Mateo mentioned - that's gold! I learned the hard way that having your Social Security card, tax return, and any relevant forms (like 1098-T for student loans) ready before you even dial makes a huge difference. The agents move much faster when you're prepared. Hang in there - you'll get through eventually! 💪