To mail your federal tax return, the mailing address depends on your state of residence and whether you are including a payment with your return.
How to find the correct mailing address:
- Visit the IRS page for "Where to File Paper Tax Returns" which provides addresses based on your state and whether you are enclosing a payment or not
- If you are not enclosing a payment, use the address designated for returns without payment.
- If you are enclosing a payment, use the address designated for returns with payment.
- For those living in U.S. territories or abroad, there are specific addresses to use, such as Austin, TX for certain forms or overseas filing
Additional tips:
- Use the U.S. Postal Service to mail your return and consider Certified Mail for proof of mailing and tracking
- Ensure your envelope has the correct postage, especially if your return is thick or has many pages
- The IRS considers your return filed on time if it is postmarked by the deadline and sent to the correct address
Summary:
- Check the IRS official site or trusted tax resources for the exact mailing address based on your state and payment status.
- Write your return address clearly on the envelope.
- Use sufficient postage.
- Mail your return before the filing deadline.
For example, if you live in Alabama and are not enclosing a payment, you would
mail your Form 1040 to: Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Austin, TX 73301-0002 If enclosing a payment, the address changes to a
different IRS location
. This state-based address system ensures your return is routed to the correct IRS processing center efficiently. For the most accurate and up-to-date address, consult the IRS "Where to File" page or IRS instructions for your tax year