There's a standard form for the IRS (as mentioned above) - some states will accept it, some have their own version, and it will be limited to specific tax matters only. If you want them to deal with it for you, that's pretty much your only option short of putting them on a conference call with you so that they can hear what the agent has to say. It's really not a big deal but if you're nervous, you can always revoke the POA after your accountant is finished taking care of the issue.