How to Find Out If the IRS Is Open Today

Check the IRS holiday and closure schedule before you call or visit

The IRS closes on federal holidays and some Saturdays and Sundays. The easiest way to know if they are open today is to check the IRS website directly at irs.gov, which lists all closure dates for the current year. You can also call the IRS main line at 1-800-829-1040 — if they are closed, the automated message will tell you when they reopen and direct you to online resources.

The IRS observes all federal holidays, including New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. On these days, all IRS offices are closed and phone lines do not operate. Some local IRS offices also close on additional days for staff training or maintenance.

Even when the IRS is closed, you can still file taxes, pay what you owe, or check your refund status through irs.gov. The website runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also use the IRS2Go mobile app to track your refund or make a payment without waiting for an office to open.

Key Takeaways

The IRS is closed on all federal holidays and does not answer phones on those days, but you can still file and pay online through irs.gov.
Calling 1-800-829-1040 will tell you immediately whether the IRS is open today and when the next available time to reach them is.
The IRS website and IRS2Go app work around the clock, even when offices are closed, so you do not have to wait to file a return or make a payment.
Some local IRS offices have their own closure dates beyond federal holidays, so calling ahead is the safest way to confirm before visiting in person.

Federal holidays when the IRS is always closed

The IRS shuts down on the same days the federal government observes as holidays. These are: New Year's Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January), Presidents' Day (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Juneteenth (June 19), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Columbus Day (second Monday in October), Veterans Day (November 11), Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November), and Christmas Day (December 25).

When a federal holiday falls on a Saturday, the IRS typically observes it on Friday. When it falls on a Sunday, the IRS observes it on Monday. This means the closure may shift by a day depending on the year. Check irs.gov or call 1-800-829-1040 to confirm the exact date if a holiday is near.

What to do if you need help and the IRS is closed

If the IRS is closed today but you need to take action, use the online tools available through irs.gov. You can file your return electronically, pay taxes or estimated payments, check the status of a refund, set up a payment plan, or view your tax account transcript without speaking to anyone. These services do not require the IRS office to be open.

If you have a specific question that requires a person to answer, you have two options: call back when the IRS reopens, or use the IRS website to find the answer. The IRS publishes detailed guidance on nearly every tax situation, and you can search by topic or keyword. Many common questions — about filing status, deductions, credits, or payment options — have answers in the IRS publications or FAQs.

For urgent matters like a pending audit or a notice you received, write down the deadline on the notice and plan to call the IRS before that date. Do not wait until the last day, because phone lines often have long wait times, especially during tax season.

Local IRS office closures beyond federal holidays

Some IRS offices close on days other than federal holidays for staff training, maintenance, or staffing shortages. These closures are not always announced in advance and vary by location. If you plan to visit an IRS office in person, call ahead to confirm it is open. You can find the phone number for your local office on irs.gov by searching for "IRS office locations" and entering your zip code.

During tax season (January through April), IRS offices are often busier and may have reduced hours or close early on certain days. If you need to visit in person, go early in the day and bring all documents you think you might need, so you do not have to return.

Using IRS online tools when offices are closed

The IRS website offers several tools that work 24/7, even on holidays and weekends. You can e-file your tax return using approved tax software, pay taxes or make estimated payments through the IRS Direct Pay system, or set up an installment agreement if you cannot pay in full. You can also download forms, check your refund status with "Where's My Refund?", or view your tax transcript.

The IRS2Go app provides similar functions on your phone. You can check your refund status, make a payment, or view your tax account information without logging into a computer. These tools are secure and do not require you to call or visit an office.

When to call the IRS and how long to expect to wait

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours on days when the office is open. Wait times are longest during tax season (January through April) and on Mondays. If you call early in the morning or later in the afternoon, you may wait less time. Have your Social Security number, tax return, and any notices from the IRS ready before you call.

If you reach a recorded message saying the IRS is closed, note the hours of operation and call back during those times. The message will also direct you to online resources or tell you when you can reach someone by phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IRS open on weekends?

No, the IRS does not answer phones or operate offices on Saturdays or Sundays. However, you can file your return, make a payment, or check your refund status on the IRS website or app at any time, including weekends.

What if I have a tax deadline and the IRS is closed?

If a tax deadline falls on a day the IRS is closed, the deadline automatically moves to the next business day. For example, if April 15 falls on a Saturday, the deadline becomes Monday, April 17. File online or by mail before the new deadline to avoid penalties.

Can I file my taxes if the IRS office is closed?

Yes. You can e-file your return through the IRS website or approved tax software any day of the year, including holidays and weekends. E-filing is faster and more secure than mailing a paper return.

How do I know if my local IRS office is closed today?

Call the office directly using the number on irs.gov, or call the main IRS line at 1-800-829-1040. The automated message will tell you if the office is closed and when it reopens. You can also check the IRS website for a list of all closure dates for the current year.

What should I do if I owe taxes and the IRS is closed?

You can pay online through IRS Direct Pay, by phone, or by mail without waiting for an office to open. Paying online takes only a few minutes and is the fastest way to ensure your payment is recorded. If you cannot pay in full, you can set up a payment plan online as well.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.