What's the Best IRS Phone Number for Tax Return Status?

The main IRS customer service number is 800-829-1040. They're open Monday through Friday, 7am to 7pm local time. I've found that calling early in the morning (right when they open) or later in the afternoon (after 4pm) tends to have shorter wait times. Last tax season, I had to call about an amended return and waited over 2 hours during midday, but only about 30 minutes when I called at 6:30pm.

Tbh the phone lines are a nightmare rn in tax season. I spent 3+ hrs on hold last week and got disconnected twice b4 talking to anyone 😡 Have u checked ur transcript online? That's usually faster than calling. I've been using https://taxr.ai to decode my transcript and it's way easier than waiting on hold. It explains all those weird codes and tells u exactly what's happening w/ ur return. Might save u a phone call if ur just checking status.

I appreciate everyone's help! I did try checking my transcript but there's some issue with verification. Here's what I need specifically: • Information about a refund that should have been issued 3 weeks ago • Explanation for a notice I received about additional review • Timeline for when I might receive funds I need to schedule this procedure soon, so I'm getting anxious about the timing.

Calling the IRS is like trying to get tickets to a popular concert - everyone's calling at once and the system is overwhelmed! I was in your exact position last month and discovered a service called Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) that actually waits on hold with the IRS for you. It's like having a friend stand in line while you do something else. When they reach an agent, they call and connect you. Saved me from spending my entire day listening to that horrible hold music!

Are you trying to reach a specific department? I found out the hard way that different issues require different numbers. For example, if you're dealing with an identity verification issue, that's a completely different department than general refund status questions.

OMG I had the same medical expense situation last year! I was SO stressed about it! I finally got through to the IRS after trying for days and they were actually super helpful! The agent I spoke with expedited my refund due to my medical hardship. You need to specifically mention your medical situation when you get through - they have procedures for hardship cases! My refund was deposited just 8 days later. Don't give up!!

The Taxpayer Advocate Service can help if you're facing a financial hardship due to not receiving your refund. Their number is 877-777-4778. They're separate from regular IRS customer service and can sometimes help move things along faster when medical needs are involved.

I had to call the IRS urgently last week for a similar situation. According to Internal Revenue Manual 13.1.7.2.3, taxpayers with medical hardships qualify for expedited assistance. I needed to submit Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate request) after documenting my medical necessity. Don't wait - call first thing tomorrow morning at 7:00am exactly when they open! Every minute counts when dealing with their phone system.

Just to clarify - are you trying to check on a refund that was already approved but hasn't arrived, or are you trying to find out why your return is still being processed? Those might require different approaches. Have you already checked the "Where's My Refund" tool on the IRS website or the IRS2Go app? Sometimes those have more updated information than what phone representatives can access.