IRS CALL-CENTER HOURS

When IRS phone lines are open—and when they may be busiest.

Most general help lines follow local time, while specialty lines may publish Eastern-time schedules. Check the exact line before calling.

Information last verified August 31, 2026 against IRS.gov.

Individual line7 a.m.–7 p.m.Local time, Monday–Friday

Business line7 a.m.–7 p.m.Local time, Monday–Friday

Generally shorter waitsWed–FriBased on current IRS guidance

How local time works

The IRS publishes 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local-time hours for its main individual and business lines. Residents of Alaska and Hawaii are instructed to follow Pacific time. Puerto Rico phone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time.

Days and periods to avoid

The IRS says waits are generally longer on Mondays and Tuesdays, during Presidents Day weekend, and around the April filing deadline. Wednesday through Friday may be less busy. Actual conditions still vary by topic and phone line.

IRS offices are closed on federal holidays. Some specialty lines have narrower schedules; review the IRS phone-number directory before calling.

Callback availability

During high-volume periods, the IRS may offer a callback instead of requiring a caller to remain on hold. Its current guidance says this is available on most toll-free topics when waits exceed 15 minutes and a representative can still be reached during business hours. Availability is not guaranteed.