Need IRS direct phone #s - dealing w/ post-divorce tax issues ASAP

Unfortunately, there's no magic direct number that bypasses the IRS queue system. Here's what you need to know: 1. The main IRS customer service number is 800-829-1040 2. Best times to call are early morning (7-8am) or late afternoon (6-7pm) 3. Avoid Mondays and Fridays when call volumes peak 4. When you call, listen carefully to the automated system 5. Press 1 for English 6. Then press 2 for "questions about your personal income tax" 7. Then press 1 for "questions about a form you filed" 8. Then press 3 for "all other questions" 9. Then press 2 for "all other questions" I've noticed wait times are even worse than normal this year. I tried calling last week and waited 1hr 45min before connecting.

I've been through something similar last year. What worked for me was calling exactly at 7:00am Eastern when their lines open. Had to redial about 5-6 times, but eventually got through with only a 20 minute wait. Saved me from paying for professional help which I couldn't afford after my own divorce. The morning strategy is definitely your best bet without spending money.

I might be able to help here... I work with tax issues regularly and have found that the Taxpayer Advocate Service can sometimes be more accessible than the main IRS line. Their number is 877-777-4778. They're technically for hardship cases, but post-divorce tax confusion with filing deadlines approaching might qualify. I've had clients get through in about 30-45 minutes rather than hours. Just be prepared to explain why your situation is urgent.

Spent 3 days trying to reach the IRS about my post-divorce tax situation last year. After 8+ hours of being on hold and disconnected repeatedly, I finally discovered Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c). They basically wait on hold for you and call you when they get an agent. Got connected in about 25 minutes when I'd been trying unsuccessfully for days. Cost me around $20 but saved me literal days of frustration. When you're dealing with post-divorce tax issues with deadlines approaching, it was absolutely worth it to get answers quickly.

Have you considered scheduling an appointment instead of calling? The IRS now offers a direct appointment scheduling system through their website. Wouldn't it be better to have a guaranteed time slot rather than endless hold music? Go to IRS.gov and search for "Schedule an Appointment" or use the direct link: https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office. You can schedule a phone appointment or even an in-person meeting at your local Taxpayer Assistance Center. For divorce-related tax issues, having a scheduled call is often more productive than random phone roulette.

For post-divorce tax questions, here are some additional resources you might find helpful: • Publication 504 specifically covers divorced or separated individuals • The IRS has a special hotline for tax practitioners: 866-860-4259 (but you need a CAF number) • Local Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) offer free assistance if you qualify • The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help • Your local taxpayer advocate office might be able to assist (separate from the main TAS line) Many people overlook these resources and just focus on the main IRS number.

Has anyone tried the new IRS Direct File system? I'm wondering if using that might give you access to support channels that regular filers don't have? I tried calling about my amended return recently and was shocked at how complicated it is just to speak with someone. The automated system seems designed to prevent human contact rather than facilitate it!

Have you considered whether your situation qualifies for assistance under IRC §7803(c), which established the Taxpayer Advocate Service specifically for cases where taxpayers are experiencing significant hardship? According to IRM 13.1.7.2, divorce-related tax issues can sometimes qualify, especially if there are potential financial consequences of delay. What specific divorce-related tax issues are you dealing with? The approach might differ depending on whether it's related to innocent spouse relief, dependency exemptions, or property transfers.