How to Call IRS from Abroad (Without SIM or Roaming)
If you’re outside the U.S. and need to reach the IRS for tax inquiries, using your local phone plan can get expensive fast. International calls to U.S. toll-free numbers often fail, and some VoIP apps are unreliable for important government calls. Even dialing from a hotel or using a local SIM may not work or could incur high charges.
This guide shows the easiest way to call the IRS from anywhere in the world without paying roaming fees or installing any apps. You’ll get step-by-step instructions and all the IRS numbers you might need.
How to Call IRS from Abroad
- Go to Callshake.com.
- Create an account and add pay-as-you-go credit.
- When prompted, dial the IRS number you need (see the list below).
Why use Callshake?
- No app required: Works in your browser on any device.
- No U.S. number needed: Obtain a local access number in 60+ countries.
- Pay only for what you use: No subscription, no hidden fees.
IRS Customer Service Numbers
Here are the main IRS phone numbers for taxpayers calling from abroad. Verified as of January 2025:
| Department | Phone Number | Hours (U.S. ET) |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Tax Inquiries | +1 800 829 1040 | Mon–Fri 7AM–7PM |
| Business & Specialty Tax Line | +1 800 829 4933 | Mon–Fri 7AM–7PM |
| International Taxpayers | +1 267 941 1000 | Mon–Fri 6AM–11PM |
| Taxpayer Advocate Service | +1 877 777 4778 | Mon–Fri 7AM–7PM |
- All numbers above accept international calls and connect you to IRS support teams.
- The +1 267 941 1000 number is specifically for international callers and may have better connectivity from abroad.
- If your country blocks U.S. numbers, use Callshake’s local access number to connect.
Why Calling IRS from Abroad Often Fails
Most U.S. toll-free numbers, like 1-800 numbers, won’t work from outside the U.S. Even if you use the IRS’s international numbers, you might still face:
- High roaming charges ($3–10 per minute)
- Dropped calls or poor connections
- Keypad menus not working properly
| Method | Why It Fails |
|---|---|
| Hotel Phone | Expensive, limited control |
| Local SIM Direct Dial | Blocked or high cost |
| Skype/WhatsApp | Often blocked for government calls |
Tips for Calling IRS
- Have your information ready: Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), tax return, and any IRS notices
- Know your issue: write down specific questions or concerns before calling
- Check U.S. time zones: IRS operates on Eastern Time (ET) for phone support
- Be prepared to wait: IRS phone lines can have long wait times, especially during tax season (January–April)
- Keep records: write down any reference numbers or agent names for follow-up
Alternative Contact Methods
If calling isn’t working, try these options:
- IRS Online Account: Access your tax account at irs.gov/account
- Get Transcript Online: Download tax transcripts at irs.gov/transcripts
- Tax Professional: Consult with an enrolled agent or tax attorney who can contact IRS on your behalf
- U.S. Embassy/Consulate: Some locations provide limited tax assistance for U.S. citizens abroad
