Due to the pandemic, the IRS has been forced to limit staff to only mission-critical functions. While tax returns and refunds continue to be processed, matters that are customarily handled over the phone such as resolving a tax notice, obtaining a power of attorney, or requesting an account transcript have become more challenging. 

The good news is that the IRS does have a robust menu of services that it offers online. While telephone assistance is limited, it is still available just expect longer wait times. We have historically found that calling the IRS right when the phone lines open at 7:00 a.m. is an effective way to limit your hold time. 

Last week, the IRS issued a fact sheet on available services. If you need to retrieve tax information, make a payment electronically, check the status of your refund or discuss a tax matter with the IRS we encourage you to check out the options available to you. As always, please feel free to contact our office, if you need assistance in any of these areas.