If you got a recording you chose the wrong option. I suspect you chose Option 1. And once you choose that option, you won't be able to get a live agent. in the same phone call. Here are the steps to follow:
At the first prompt, select your language.
There will be a short message about using the website.
Next, select the reason for your call. Choose option 2 "about your account."
Listen to ALL the options, then choose "none of these".
Eventually it will say to hold on while it transfers you to an agent.
That *should* get you to a live agent. But another option would be to call that main IRS number, and at every prompt, press the # button. Since it won't know what you mean, it should eventually transfer you to a live agent, but you likely will encounter a wait until it's your turn.
