Understanding IRS Email Policy
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not accept tax-related questions via email to protect taxpayer privacy and sensitive information. This policy is outlined in the IRS’s privacy guidance on email contact.
Alternative Contact Methods
To contact the IRS with tax-related inquiries, you can use the following methods:
- Phone: Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for individual tax return questions or 1-800-829-4933 for business tax return questions.
- In-Person: Visit your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) to speak with a representative in person.
Secure Communication Options
For specific cases, the IRS may use secure email to communicate with taxpayers. However, this option is only available for ongoing cases with an assigned IRS employee.
Protecting Your Privacy
To protect your privacy, avoid emailing the IRS with sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or credit card information. Use secure methods like your online account or other applications on IRS.gov for such communications.
Additional Information
- The IRS preserves emails that meet the definition of federal records as required by the Federal Records Act.
- Emails that are not considered records are deleted when no longer needed.
Summary Table: Contacting the IRS
| Contact Method | Availability | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | 7 AM – 7 PM Monday through Friday local time | Less complex questions |
| In-Person | Visit your local TAC | Complex questions or in-person assistance |
| Secure Email | Only for ongoing cases with an assigned IRS employee | Secure communication in specific cases |
While the IRS does not accept tax-related questions via email, it provides alternative contact methods to ensure taxpayers can receive the assistance they need. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate with the IRS and protect your privacy.
How to verify your identity with the IRS to receive your tax return
FAQ
How do I contact the IRS by email?
How do I contact the IRS to ask a question?
Can I chat online with IRS?
Will the IRS contact me by email?
The IRS will never initiate contact with you by email. Here are cases when we may send you email with your consent: When you create an account through IRS.gov, we confirm your email address and personal information to verify your identity. You can opt to receive email from us in your account profile.
Does the IRS have an email address?
The IRS has only one email address, and that’s solely for use in reporting scams. The IRS does maintain a website, and you can find a lot of general tax information there. Be prepared for long wait times if you call the IRS. You can visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center if you need in-person help.
What if I can’t find the answers to my tax questions?
If you can’t find the answers to your tax questions on IRS.gov, we offer help in over 350 languages with the support of professional interpreters. If you mailed a tax return or letter and haven’t yet heard from us, don’t call or file a second return. Find expected wait times for current IRS operations and services.
When can taxpayers use email to communicate with the IRS?
Through October 2025 taxpayers may use email to communicate with the IRS when working with a specific IRS employee on an ongoing case. Taxpayers can respond securely to emails from these employees or initiate emails if they follow certain procedures to protect their personal information.