New IRS App Replaces IRS2Go: What Preparers and Clients Should Know

What the IRS announced

In IRS Tax Tip 2026-71, dated Sept. 29, 2026, the IRS announced a new IRS app. It gives taxpayers another way to securely reach IRS tools and account services from a mobile device. The new app has replaced the former IRS2Go app.

The IRS describes the app as an expansion of mobile access to selected IRS Individual Online Account services. That makes it useful for individual taxpayers, including self-employed clients who report business income on Schedule C, and for the preparers who help them.

What taxpayers can do in the app

After signing in securely, taxpayers can use the available account information and self-service options in the app. According to the IRS, these include:

Checking refund and amended-return status
Viewing available balance information
Making payments and reviewing payment activity
Viewing select notices and letters
Accessing available tax records and transcripts
Managing certain profile and communication preferences
Accessing an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

The IRS says features are "available" or "select." This means not every notice, letter or record will necessarily appear in the app.

How to get the official app

The IRS app is free.
It is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Current IRS2Go users do not need to download a separate app.
Users who have automatic updates turned on will receive the IRS app through the normal update process.
Taxpayers can also visit IRS App on IRS.gov for verified links and more information.

It does not replace IRS.gov or online accounts

The IRS is clear that the app does not replace IRS.gov or IRS online accounts. IRS.gov will continue to provide comprehensive tax information, guidance, forms, tools and services. Think of the app as a mobile shortcut to selected account services, not a full substitute for the website.

Watch out for fake apps and links

Any popular government tool attracts imitators. The IRS warns taxpayers to use verified IRS links or the official IRS app listings. They should be cautious of look-alike apps, advertisements and unsolicited messages that claim to give access to IRS accounts.

The IRS also says it won't ask taxpayers to provide sensitive personal or financial information through an unsolicited text, email or pop-up message. If a taxpayer is unsure whether a message or app is legitimate, the IRS advises avoiding unsolicited links and using verified resources to find the official app.

Taxpayers who suspect scams or other tax-related wrongdoing can submit a confidential tip through the online fraud reporting tool, using a smartphone, tablet or computer, at IRS.gov/submitatip.

What preparers can tell clients

The IRS app is the new version of IRS2Go. If they already have IRS2Go, updating it is enough.
Download it only from the Apple App Store or Google Play, or from the verified links on IRS.gov under IRS App.
It can help them check refund or amended-return status, make payments, view select notices and letters, and get transcripts or an IP PIN when available.
IRS.gov and IRS online accounts are still available for everything else.
If a text, email or pop-up asks for sensitive information or sends them to an app or link they do not recognize, they should not click it. They can report suspected scams at IRS.gov/submitatip.

This article summarizes IRS Tax Tip 2026-71. Check IRS.gov for the latest details on which features are available in the app.

Informational only, based on the IRS source linked above; not tax or legal advice for a specific situation.