If you’re living abroad and need to get in touch with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you already know it’s no small task. Whether you’re filing taxes from overseas, trying to resolve a notice, or following up on a refund or transcript request — calling the IRS is often necessary, but rarely easy.
In 2025, it’s even harder. Not only have wait times increased, but most VoIP apps (like Google Voice or local SIP providers) automatically disconnect calls after 60 minutes, cutting people off just as they’re about to reach an agent.
Here’s how to make sure you can actually complete the call, stay on the line, and talk to a real human — without paying a fortune.
Why Americans Abroad Struggle to Call the IRS
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| IRS wait times can be high | Especially during tax season and for live agent support |
| Most VoIP apps cut off at 60 min | Calls drop automatically before you even get through |
| Toll-free numbers don’t work | U.S. 1-800 and 1-888 numbers are blocked or not free from most international phones |
| Calling is expensive | International carriers charge $1+/min or block the calls altogether |
| Time zones make it harder | You may only get one chance per day to catch them while they’re open |
The Better Way in 2025: Use Connect-EZ to Call the IRS
Connect-EZ is a modern, browser-based calling solution built for people living overseas. You log in with just your email, and you can call any U.S. number — including toll-free numbers and government agencies — right from your device.
Why it’s ideal for calling the IRS:
✅ No 60-minute cutoff — stay on the line for the full wait duration
✅ Works from any country with Wi-Fi or mobile data
✅ Can dial 1-800, 1-888, 1-866, and 1-877 numbers
✅ No SIM or U.S. number required
✅ Clear audio and call stability — even on long waits
IRS Phone Numbers (U.S. & International)
| Department/Reason | Number | Available From Abroad? |
|---|---|---|
| Main Individual Taxpayer Line | 1-800-829-1040 | ❌ No (toll-free blocked abroad) |
| IRS International Callers Line | +1-267-941-1000 | ✅ Yes (paid line) |
| Business & Specialty Tax Line | 1-800-829-4933 | ❌ No (unless via service like Connect-EZ) |
| Refund Hotline | 1-800-829-1954 | ❌ Usually blocked abroad |
Who Typically Needs to Call the IRS from Abroad?
- U.S. expats with foreign income reporting obligations (Forms 2555, 1116)
- Retirees with SSA/IRS benefit coordination issues
- Freelancers or remote workers filing from overseas
- Americans needing wage transcripts or IRS identity verification
- Anyone with tax refund delays, notices, or errors
How to Call the IRS from Abroad (Step-by-Step)
- Open the Connect-EZ toll-free calling page *
- Enter the number 18008291040, click on “Call now”
- Wait as long as needed — no auto-disconnect
- Speak to a live IRS representative
Final Thoughts
Calling the IRS from outside the U.S. used to be manageable — but with toll-free access removed and most apps timing out at 60 minutes, it’s now harder than ever to get real help.
Connect-EZ offers a reliable way to make those critical calls — whether you need to file from abroad, ask about a refund, or fix an account issue.
Don’t get cut off. Don’t waste hours redialing. Call once and stay connected.
*Default toll-free service is limited to 10 minutes/day/user. You can download the app or signup for longers calls.