How Do I Contact The Irs Nys

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Tax matters can be incredibly complex, and when you're dealing with both federal and state regulations, it can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Many people get confused between the federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (NYS DTF). It's crucial to understand that these are two separate entities, each with its own jurisdiction and contact methods.

So, you're in New York and need to reach the IRS (federal) or NYS (state) for your tax questions? Let's break it down step-by-step.

Step 1: Identify Your Taxing Authority!

Before you pick up the phone or send an email, ask yourself: Is this a federal tax issue or a New York State tax issue? This is the most critical first step, as contacting the wrong agency will only lead to frustration and wasted time.

  • Federal Tax Issues: This typically relates to your federal income tax returns (Form 1040 series), federal tax payments, Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), Social Security taxes, Medicare taxes, and other federal programs. If your question is about anything related to your federal tax obligations, you'll need to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

  • New York State Tax Issues: This covers your New York State income tax returns, New York State sales tax, property taxes (STAR program), New York City taxes (if applicable), and any other tax specific to New York State. If your question pertains to your state tax obligations, you'll need to contact the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (NYS DTF).

Once you've determined which agency you need to reach, proceed to the relevant steps below.

Part 1: Contacting the Federal IRS (for New York Residents)

Even though you're in New York, you'll use the general federal IRS contact methods for federal tax questions.

Step 2: Gather Your Information

Before contacting the IRS, have all necessary documents and information readily available. This will help them verify your identity and address your inquiry efficiently.

  • For Individuals:

    • Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
    • Date of birth.
    • Filing status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly).
    • Tax return for the year in question (if applicable).
    • Any IRS notices or letters you've received.
    • Proof of bank account information if discussing refunds or payments.
    • For third-party inquiries, you'll need a valid verbal or written authorization (Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, or Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative).

  • For Businesses:

    • Employer Identification Number (EIN).
    • Business name and address.
    • Relevant tax forms or notices.

Step 3: Explore Online Resources First

The IRS website is a treasure trove of information and often provides answers without needing to speak to someone directly.

Sub-heading: Leveraging the IRS Website

  • IRS.gov: This is your primary online hub. You can find forms, publications, FAQs, and use various online tools.
    • Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA): This tool can help you answer many tax-related questions, like "Should I file?" or "Is my pension taxable?"
    • "Where's My Refund?" Tool: Track the status of your federal income tax refund.
    • "Get Transcript" Tool: Obtain tax transcripts online, by mail, or by fax.
    • IRS Direct Pay: Make federal tax payments directly from your checking or savings account.
    • Online Payment Agreement: Set up a payment plan if you can't pay your taxes in full.

Step 4: Contacting the IRS by Phone

For many issues, a phone call is the most direct way to get assistance. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak tax season (January to April) and on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Sub-heading: General Inquiry Phone Numbers

  • Individuals: Call 1-800-829-1040. Available Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
  • Businesses: Call 1-800-829-4933. Available Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
  • Tax Professionals: If you have a valid third-party authorization, contact the Practitioner Priority Service at 1-866-860-4259.
  • Non-profit Taxes: Call 1-877-829-5500.
  • Estate and Gift Taxes (Form 706/709): Call 1-866-699-4083.
  • Excise Taxes: Call 1-866-699-4096.

Sub-heading: Specific Issue Phone Numbers

  • Refund Hotline (Automated): 1-800-829-1954 (available 24/7, but generally recommended to wait 4-5 weeks after filing).
  • Order Tax Forms and Publications: 1-800-829-3676.
  • TeleTax (Recorded Messages): 1-800-829-4477 (offers pre-recorded tax topics).
  • Hearing Impaired (TTY/TDD): 1-800-829-4059.
  • Interpretation Services: For Spanish, call 1-800-829-1040. For all other languages, call 1-833-553-9895. An IRS assistor can provide an interpreter or schedule an in-person appointment with an interpreter.

Step 5: In-Person Assistance at a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)

If your issue is complex and requires face-to-face interaction, you can visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) in New York.

Sub-heading: Locating and Scheduling an Appointment

  • Appointment Required: IRS TACs generally operate by appointment only. You cannot simply walk in and expect immediate assistance for most services.
  • To Schedule an Appointment: Call 1-844-545-5640.
  • Find a TAC Near You: Use the IRS online Taxpayer Assistance Center locator (IRS.gov/taclocator). You can search by address or state. The tool provides hours of operation, addresses, phone numbers, and directions.

Sub-heading: New York TAC Locations (Examples - verify current addresses and hours on IRS.gov)

  • Bronx: 1200 Waters Place, Bronx, NY 10461
  • Brooklyn: 2 MetroTech Center, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (or 420 Albee Square West, Brooklyn, NY 11201 - check the most current address online)
  • Elmhurst (Queens): 57-07 Junction Blvd., Elmhurst, NY 11373
  • Manhattan (Harlem): 2116 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd., New York, NY 10027
  • Manhattan (Downtown): 290 Broadway, New York, NY 10007
  • Albany: 11A Clinton Avenue, Suite 354, Albany, NY 12207
  • Holtsville: 1040 Waverly Avenue, Stop 02, Holtsville, NY 11742
  • Buffalo: 130 South Elmwood Ave, Room 265, Buffalo, NY 14202

Sub-heading: What to Bring to Your Appointment

  • Current government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license).
  • Social Security numbers or ITINs for yourself and all members of your household (spouse, dependents) if applicable.
  • Any IRS letters or notices you've received.
  • Relevant tax documents for the specific issue.
  • For identity verification, bring two forms of identification and, if filed, a copy of the tax return for the year in question.

Step 6: Contacting the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)

If you've tried to resolve your issue through normal IRS channels and are experiencing significant difficulty, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) can help. TAS is an independent organization within the IRS that assists taxpayers who are facing economic harm, experiencing delays, or whose issues haven't been resolved through regular IRS procedures.

  • Phone: 1-877-777-4778
  • New York TAS Offices:
    • Albany Office: 11A Clinton Avenue, Suite 354, Albany, NY 12207 (518-292-3001)
    • Brookhaven Office: 1040 Waverly Avenue, Stop 02, Holtsville, NY 11742 (631-654-6686)
    • Buffalo Office: 130 South Elmwood Ave, Room 265, Buffalo, NY 14202 (716-961-5300)
    • Manhattan Office: 290 Broadway, 5th Floor, Manhattan, NY 10007 (212-436-1011)

Part 2: Contacting the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (NYS DTF)

For all New York State-specific tax matters, you'll need to reach out to the NYS DTF.

Step 2: Gather Your New York State Tax Information

Similar to federal taxes, having your information ready for state tax inquiries is crucial.

  • New York State Taxpayer ID (if applicable, for businesses).
  • Social Security Number (SSN).
  • New York State tax returns for the year in question.
  • Any notices or bills from the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance.
  • Information related to specific state programs (e.g., STAR, property tax credits).

Step 3: Explore NYS DTF Online Resources First

The NYS DTF website offers a wealth of self-service options.

Sub-heading: Utilizing the NYS DTF Website

  • tax.ny.gov: This is the official website for the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
    • Online Services Account: Create an individual account to access tax information, respond to notices, and manage your tax affairs.
    • "Check Your Refund Status" Tool: Track your New York State income tax refund.
    • Forms and Instructions: Download state tax forms and publications.
    • FAQs: Find answers to common questions about various New York State taxes.
    • STAR Program Information: Details on property tax relief.

Step 4: Contacting NYS DTF by Phone

The NYS DTF has various phone lines for different types of inquiries.

Sub-heading: General Inquiry and Specific Program Phone Numbers

  • Personal Income Tax Information Center: 1-518-457-5181. Available Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Automated assistance is also available in Cantonese, Mandarin, Russian, and Spanish.
  • Check Your Refund Status (Automated): 1-518-457-5149 (available 24/7).
  • Forms Ordering: 1-518-457-5431.
  • Disagree with Your Bill or Notice: 1-518-485-9791.
  • STAR Program Inquiries: 1-518-457-2036.
  • Property Tax Information Center: 1-518-591-5232.
  • Taxpayer Rights Advocate (NYS): 1-518-530-4357.
  • Tax Evasion & Fraud Reporting: 1-518-457-0578.
  • TTY (for hearing impaired): 711.
  • Interpretation Services: Call 1-518-453-8137.

Sub-heading: Business-Related Phone Numbers (Examples - verify current numbers on tax.ny.gov)

  • Business Information Center: 1-800-972-1233.
  • Business Ambassador: 1-518-485-5080.

Step 5: In-Person Assistance for New York State Taxes

While the NYS DTF doesn't have "walk-in" offices like the IRS, they do offer some in-person services by appointment. It's best to call the relevant phone number for your specific inquiry and ask about in-person options. Their main office is located at:

  • W. A. Harriman Campus, Albany, NY 12227-0125

It's important to note that you should not simply show up at the Albany campus without a pre-arranged appointment or clear instructions from a representative that an in-person visit is necessary.

Step 6: Contacting NYS DTF via Mail or Fax

For certain inquiries or to submit documents, you may need to use mail or fax. Always refer to the specific notice or form for the correct mailing address or fax number.

Sub-heading: General Mailing Address for NYS DTF

  • New York State Department of Taxation and Finance W. A. Harriman Campus Albany, NY 12227

Always double-check the specific mailing address provided on any official correspondence from the NYS DTF, as different forms or departments may have unique addresses.

FAQs: How to Contact the IRS and NYS DTF Effectively

Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to contacting the IRS and NYS DTF, along with quick answers.

  1. How to check my federal tax refund status?

    • Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool online at IRS.gov, or call the automated refund hotline at 1-800-829-1954.

  2. How to check my New York State tax refund status?

    • Visit the NYS DTF website (tax.ny.gov) and use their "Check Your Refund Status" tool, or call their automated refund line at 1-518-457-5149.

  3. How to get help if I'm hearing impaired for federal tax questions?

    • Call the IRS TTY/TDD line at 1-800-829-4059.

  4. How to get help if I'm hearing impaired for New York State tax questions?

    • Dial 711 for the New York State TTY service.

  5. How to find an IRS office in New York City?

    • Use the IRS online Taxpayer Assistance Center locator at IRS.gov/taclocator, then call 1-844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment.

  6. How to get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for my business?

    • You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website, by fax, or by mail. The quickest method is often online.

  7. How to get tax forms mailed to me (federal)?

    • Call the IRS forms ordering line at 1-800-829-3676.

  8. How to get tax forms mailed to me (New York State)?

    • Call the NYS DTF forms ordering line at 1-518-457-5431.

  9. How to speak to someone in Spanish about my federal taxes?

    • Call the general IRS individual assistance line at 1-800-829-1040 and select the Spanish language option.

  10. How to report tax fraud or evasion for New York State taxes?

    • You can contact the NYS DTF Tax Evasion & Fraud Reporting line at 1-518-457-0578.
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How Do I Contact The Irs Nys

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