The IRS mailing address depends on your state and whether you're sending a check

The IRS publishes a different mailing address for each state. If you mail your return to the wrong address, it will be delayed or sent back to you. The address you use also changes if you're enclosing a payment versus sending a return with no payment.

The official list of mailing addresses is in IRS Publication 15-B, which the IRS updates each year. You can also find your state's address on the IRS website under "Where to File" — this is the fastest way to confirm the current address before you mail anything.

Do not mail your return to a local IRS office or the address on an IRS letter you received. Those are not processing addresses. The IRS processes paper returns at regional service centers, and each state routes to a specific center.

Key Takeaways

  • The correct mailing address is listed on the IRS website under "Where to File" and varies by state.
  • You use one address if you're sending a check with your return and a different address if you're not sending payment.
  • Mailing to the wrong address delays your return by weeks or causes it to be returned to you.
  • The IRS publishes updated addresses each year in Publication 15-B and on its website.

How to find your state's mailing address

Go to IRS.gov and search for "Where to File." The IRS maintains a table organized by state. Find your state, then look at the column that matches your situation: whether you're sending a check or not sending a check.

Write down the full address exactly as it appears, including the ZIP code. The IRS sorts mail by ZIP code, and an incomplete or wrong ZIP code can route your return to the wrong facility.

If you cannot access the IRS website, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and ask for the mailing address for your state. Have your state name ready. The IRS also prints the addresses in Publication 15-B, which you can order by mail or read from IRS.gov.

Mailing address if you're sending a check

If your return shows that you owe taxes and you're enclosing a check, use the address listed under "If you're sending a check" for your state. This address routes your return and payment to the service center that processes payments first.

Write your Social Security number and the tax year on the check. Do not staple the check to your return — paper-clip it to the front of the first page. The IRS processes checks separately from the return itself, and a staple can damage the check or cause it to be separated from your return.

Mail your check and return together in the same envelope. Do not mail them separately. The IRS matches the check to your return by Social Security number and tax year, but mailing them together reduces the chance of a delay.

Mailing address if you're not sending a check

If your return shows a refund is due, or if you owe no tax, use the address listed under "If you're not sending a check" for your state. This address is different from the payment address and routes your return to a different processing facility.

Do not include a check at this address even if you change your mind about your refund. If you owe money and did not send a check, the IRS will bill you after processing your return. You can then pay by check, online, or by phone.

What to include in the envelope

Include your complete return, all schedules, and all supporting documents the IRS asks for. Do not include documents the IRS did not ask for — extra pages slow down processing.

If you're sending a check, paper-clip it to the front of page 1 of your return. If you're sending documents that are not part of the standard return form (such as a statement explaining a deduction), include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and a list of what you're enclosing.

Use a mailing method that gives you a tracking number or receipt. The IRS does not track incoming mail, so if your return goes missing, you will need proof that you mailed it. First-Class Mail with tracking, Priority Mail, or certified mail all provide this.

How long processing takes after mailing

The IRS typically processes paper returns within 21 days of receiving them. However, the return must first travel through the mail, which adds one to three weeks depending on distance and mail volume.

If you need to know whether the IRS received your return, you can call 1-800-829-1040 after four weeks and provide your Social Security number. The IRS can tell you whether your return arrived and whether processing has started.

If you filed a return claiming a refund, you can check the status on IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund?" tool after the return has been received and processing has begun. This tool updates once per day.

Reasons to consider e-filing instead of mailing

E-filing (submitting your return electronically) reaches the IRS the same day you file and does not require you to look up an address or use the mail. The IRS processes e-filed returns faster than paper returns — typically within 21 days for a refund, compared to four to six weeks for a mailed return.

You can e-file for free using IRS Free File if your income is below a certain threshold, which varies each year. If your income is above that threshold, tax software that e-files costs between $60 and $150 depending on the complexity of your return.

E-filing also reduces the chance of errors, because the software checks your math and flags missing information before you submit. If you mail a paper return with an error, the IRS will contact you by mail, which adds weeks to the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mail my return to an IRS office near me?

No. IRS offices do not process returns. Mail your return to the service center address for your state, which is listed on IRS.gov under "Where to File." Mailing to a local office will delay your return by weeks.

What if I mail my return to the wrong address?

The IRS will either return it to you or forward it to the correct facility, both of which cause delays of two to four weeks. If you realize you used the wrong address before mailing, do not send the return. Look up the correct address and mail it again.

Do I need to use certified mail or signature confirmation?

Certified mail with return receipt is not required, but it provides proof that the IRS received your return. Regular First-Class Mail with tracking is less expensive and gives you the same proof. Keep your receipt until you confirm the IRS processed your return.

Can I mail my return in a different envelope or folder?

Yes, as long as the envelope is sturdy and the address is clear. Do not use a folder with brads or fasteners — these can jam the IRS's mail-opening equipment. A standard business envelope or padded mailer works fine.

What happens if the IRS loses my mailed return?

If you have proof you mailed it (a tracking receipt or certified mail receipt), contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your proof. The IRS can issue you a new filing important date and may waive penalties if the loss was the IRS's fault. Keep your mailing receipt for at least three years.