How to contact the IRS? they just do not pick up and keep saying that there's a high volume of calls for a year now, any tips? thank you

The IRS is severely backlogged and it is very difficult to get through to them on the phone.   We cannot offer any tricks or alternate numbers that work, except that we hear from some users that early morning is better.

 

To call the IRS:IRS:  800-829-1040  hours 7 AM - 7 PM local time Mon-Fri

Listen to each menu before making the selection.

First choose your language. Press 1 for English.

Then do NOT choose the first choice re: "Refund", or it will send you to an automated phone line.

Instead, press 2 for "personal income tax".

Then press 1 for "form, tax history, or payment".  

Then press 3 "for all other questions."

Then press 2 "for all other questions."  It should then transfer you to an agent.