Should You Call the IRS Yourself or Work With a Tax Professional?

There is no rule that says you must use a tax professional to deal with the IRS. Many taxpayers handle routine notices on their own without any problem. The question is whether the situation is simple enough that doing it yourself is straightforward — or complex enough that professional help is worth the cost.

When Handling It Yourself Is Reasonable

• The notice is informational and requires no response
• The IRS is requesting a document you have and can easily provide
• The proposed change is a minor math correction and you agree with it
• The balance due is small and you agree with the amount
• The notice is a routine reminder about a payment that has already been made

In these situations, the IRS notice itself usually includes clear instructions for how to respond. Following those instructions, providing the requested documentation, and keeping a copy of everything you send is generally sufficient.

When Professional Help Is Worth Considering

• The proposed change involves a significant amount of money
• You disagree with the IRS's position and need to make a case
• The notice involves an audit or examination of your return
• The notice involves multiple years or multiple issues
• You are not sure what the IRS is actually asking or why
• You have already responded once and the issue has not been resolved
• The notice involves collection activity — liens, levies, or wage garnishment

What Changes When a Professional Is Involved

A CPA or enrolled agent can file a Power of Attorney (Form 2848) with the IRS, which authorizes them to communicate with the IRS on your behalf. Once that authorization is in place, the IRS communicates with your representative rather than directly with you.

This changes the dynamic in several ways. Your representative can review the IRS's position and assess whether it is correct. They can communicate in writing, which creates a record. They understand the procedural options available — appeals, reconsideration, installment agreements — and can advise on which path makes sense for your situation.

It also means you are not navigating IRS phone queues or making statements that could complicate the situation. IRS calls are recorded, and what you say matters.

A Note on IRS Phone Wait Times

If you do call the IRS yourself, be prepared for significant wait times. IRS phone lines are often congested, particularly during filing season. Have the notice in front of you, along with your Social Security number or EIN, the tax year in question, and any relevant documents. Take notes during the call, including the name of the representative and the date and time of the call.