Yeah, it’s a much better use of time to post on FR about things where no one will be able to resolve the problem.
Your chance of finding someone here who has been through a similar situation who can share helpful information is surprisingly high. Plus there are tax professionals on this forum who have been helpful in the past. This often does resolve the problem, especially in a situation like this one where only advice is being asked for. So don't be a big boob Bigbob.
The IRS is completely useless dealing with people. Absolutely, completely useless. They are impossible to reach.
At least on FR kind friends respond immediately and offer stories of similar experiences.
Thanks for your input. It was very helpful.
I'm a CA CPA, who deals with the IRS almost every day for decades. So I know what I'm doing.