Is 800-829-8310 Really the IRS? What That Number Means—and How to Respond Safely
If you just received a tax notice and saw 800-829-8310 on the top right corner, here’s the short answer: it’s an official IRS toll-free line that appears on CP2000 “Automated Underreporter” notices and related underreporter correspondence. It routes to the IRS AUR (Automated Underreporter) program, most commonly for Small Business/Self-Employed issues.
What 800-829-8310 Connects You To (And When You’ll See It)
The IRS uses multiple hotlines for specific programs. 800-829-8310 is referenced in the IRS Internal Revenue Manual to route taxpayers to the AUR toll-free number—the unit that handles mismatches between what you reported and what third parties (employers, banks, brokers) reported to the IRS. You’ll often see it on CP2000 notices.
A CP2000 isn’t a bill. It’s a proposed change based on income or payment data that doesn’t match your return. The notice explains what the IRS thinks should change and what you can do next (agree, partially agree, or disagree and provide documentation).
Is 800-829-8310 a Legit IRS Number?
Yes. Beyond the Internal Revenue Manual, practitioner guidance and reputable tax help pages also reference 800-829-8310 as the IRS line tied to AUR/CP2000 workflows (with hours and routing varying by program). That said, scammers sometimes copy real IRS phone numbers into fake letters—so the presence of a real number doesn’t automatically mean the letter is genuine. Always verify the notice on IRS.gov (more on that below).
CP2000 in Plain English: Why You Got It and What to Do
Why you got it: The IRS received forms (W-2s, 1099s, 1099-B, etc.) that don’t match your tax return. That can increase, decrease, or have no impact on tax owed.
What to do next:
- Read the notice carefully. It shows the items that don’t match and the proposed changes.
- Respond by the deadline. You can agree (and pay, if due), or disagree and send documentation. Some corrections require a written response even if you also call.
- Use the right contact path. For AUR questions tied to CP2000, the notice may direct you to 800-829-8310. If you’re unsure about authenticity, call the general IRS line at 800-829-1040 and ask them to confirm the notice and number.
How to Verify an IRS Letter Before Calling Any Number
- Search the notice code on IRS.gov. Go to the IRS notices directory and enter “CP2000” (or your notice name/number). Match layout, instructions, payment info (“U.S. Treasury”), and contact details.
- Check for your notice in your IRS Online Account. Many letters are mirrored there. If it’s missing and looks off, treat it as suspicious.
- Know the real contact channels. The IRS lists official numbers and programs (e.g., AUR, ACS collections). When in doubt, start at 800-829-1040 or an IRS office locator page.
Red Flags of Fake “IRS” Letters (Even When They List Real Numbers)
Scammers send mail that looks official and sometimes includes real IRS phone numbers to build credibility—but then direct you to call a different number, pay via gift cards, or share sensitive data. If a letter demands immediate payment, threatens arrest, or asks for unusual payment methods, it’s not the IRS playbook. Report it and independently confirm with the IRS.
When You Should Call 800-829-8310—and When You Shouldn’t
Call 800-829-8310 if your legitimate CP2000 or underreporter notice lists it and you have questions about those specific proposed changes. The line is associated with AUR support; some issues still require a written response to finalize.
Don’t call it just because a random website or forum mentions the number. Always verify against IRS.gov or the letter in your Online Account first. If anything feels off, use the general help line (800-829-1040) to validate your case.
How Tax Pros Navigate the Menu (FYI)
Practitioner guidance notes that when handling AUR or CP2000 issues, menus may prompt you based on the phone number printed on the notice—including 800-829-8310—to route you efficiently. This is normal IRS call tree behavior, not a scam clue on its own.
FAQs About 800-829-8310 & CP2000
1. What exactly is at 800-829-8310?
It’s an IRS AUR/CP2000 contact number used on certain notices when the IRS proposes changes to your return due to mismatched third-party information.
2. My letter lists 800-829-8310—does that prove it’s real?
Not by itself. Scammers sometimes copy real IRS numbers into fake letters. Verify the notice on IRS.gov or in your Online Account, or call 800-829-1040 to confirm.
3. Do I have to call, or can I respond in writing?
Many CP2000 matters require a written response with documentation even if you also call. Follow the instructions in your notice.
4. What if the notice is wrong?
You can disagree and send evidence (e.g., corrected broker statements, W-2/1099 explanations). Respond by the deadline on the notice; the IRS will review and reply.
Bottom Line: Treat 800-829-8310 as a Valid IRS Line—But Verify First
800-829-8310 is a legitimate IRS phone number tied to the Automated Underreporter/CP2000 process. Use it only when it appears on a notice you’ve verified through IRS.gov or your Online Account. If you’re unsure, start with 800-829-1040 to authenticate the letter before sharing any information or making payments. Staying methodical protects you from scams and helps you resolve CP2000 issues efficiently.
