The IRS has hired an independent research firm that may randomly phone tax professionals for a survey between Nov. 27, 2023, and Jan. 19, 2024, Accounting Today reported.

The 20-minute survey, to be conducted by ICF, will come from a Kansas City area code (816). Practitioners will be contacted Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. local time.

The topics include e-filing, due diligence requirements, data security and electronic document submission. Responses are anonymous and confidential, and tax professionals will not be asked to provide any personal info about themselves or their clients.

"This is not a scam. Please don't hang up," the agency said in an announcement about the survey. "Responses will help the IRS improve services to the tax pro community and the taxpayers they serve."