How to Contact the IRS About a Form 2290 Issue (Including Fax Instructions)

Start with a Phone Call

If you receive a notice or have a question about your Form 2290 filing, your first step should be to call the IRS directly. The number on your notice is usually ok, but sometimes it’s the Business and Specialty Tax Line. For Form 2290 questions, you want to call the 2290 Hotline if at all possible.

IRS Form 2290 Hotline Phone Number:
866-699-4096

In many cases, the IRS can answer your question over the phone, but they will only speak to the taxpayer or someone with an IRS Power of Attorney, Form 2848. Spouses, Business Partners, Siblings and moms need not apply.

When the IRS Asks You to Send a Fax

In some situations, the IRS may ask you to fax in your question or documentation instead of resolving it on the call. This is the new post DOGE cut normal at IRS.

The representatives on the phone are newly trained and may not have full access to your account details or may need your request reviewed by another more senior or experienced person. If that happens, they will give you a fax number and ask you to send your question in writing.

Yes, a Fax, the kind from the 90’s…

Yes the IRS still uses a fax machine. They do not use email for communication because of fraud and phishing concerns. So if you want a reply, faster than the Snail Mail, you’re going to have to figure this out.

Some places to look for a fax machine:

• Your local library
• Office supply stores
• Print and shipping shops

Make sure wherever you go can both send and receive faxes, since the IRS will respond via fax or not at all.

Where to Send Your Fax:
Form 2290 IRS Fax Number: 855-388-1137

It’s always a good idea to confirm the fax number with the IRS representative before sending. Their fax numbers have a habit of changing from time to time. We’ll keep this page updated when we learn about that, but it’s a good idea to double check.

 

What to Include on Your Fax Cover Sheet:

Your fax should include a clear and complete cover sheet. Include the following:

• To: IRS
• Fax: 855-388-1137
• Phone: 866-699-4096
• Number of pages (including cover sheet):
• From: Taxpayer Name, Business Name, EIN
• Officer Name (if applicable)
• Phone Number
• Return Fax Number
• Date Sent
• If you are a preparer sending this on behalf of your client, also include:
• Your Name Your Firm Name
• Your Contact Information
• Your Signed 2848 and CAF# if applicable

Here's an Example of Your IRS Fax Sheet:

How to Write Your Question

Keep your message simple and direct. I always say, pretend your explaining your situation to a 1st grader. Explain:

• What notice you received
• What the IRS is asking for
• Your specific question or concern

The clearer and more straightforward your message is, the easier it is for the IRS to respond. Then SIGN at the bottom of the cover sheet.

What to Attach

Behind your cover sheet, include any supporting documentation you have related to your question. This could be a notice you received, or copies proving payment of tax, or anything really. If it backs up what you’re saying, include it.

What Happens Next

The IRS will usually respond by fax. They will not call or email you back. Response times can vary, but before COVID their goal was 3 business days. Keep a copy of everything you send and have it handy because they won’t include it in their reply.

Need Help?

If you are not sure what to send or how to explain your situation, call us and we will help you get it right. We deal with these notices regularly and can help you avoid back-and-forth delays.

Article published 4/15/2026