Where to File IRS

Where to file IRS tax forms? Read on to find IRS tax mailing address information.

Since electronic filing began in 1986, every year increasing numbers of taxpayers file their tax returns electronically (efile). In 2008, just short of 90 million tax returns were filed over the Internet using electronic software, which equated to about 57% of all the tax returns the IRS received. Despite the popularity of electronic filing, there are times when you need or want to file paper tax forms.

Things You'll Need

• Paper tax return (for example, 1040, 1040-EZ or 1040A) Other applicable tax schedules and tax forms (for example, Schedule C and Schedule SE if you are self employed) Support materials (for example, W-2, 1099) Payment, if applicable Mailing envelope (preferably pre-printed) and postage stamp

Instructions

1. Determine the year for filing the taxes, who is doing the filing (you or the accountant firm you hire), if you can enclose payment with your tax return, and if you've filled in all the information. You need to have all the materials, documents, schedules, and forms before filing.

2. Check the instruction booklet for the forms you are filing if you are using paper tax forms that were printed. Commonly, the IRS mailing address is included both on the printed envelopes included with the tax forms (if you received them in the mail) and on the back cover of the instruction booklet of the appropriate form (such as 1040, 1040A or 1040-EZ).

3. Go to the appropriate page on the IRS Website for your particular situation (see Resources) for the tax filing address for the current year if you are using paper tax forms that you printed out off the Web. Look at the charts to determine to which address you should mail your tax return (and note the zip code extension).

4. Note this example if you are having trouble: If you are an individual taxpayer in the year 2009 filing for tax year 2008--and you live in California and are filing your own 1040 tax return and including a payment with the return--you'll find instructions on the IRS Website. Otherwise, mail the tax return to the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888-0102.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you mail your tax form to the IRS, the IRS recommends you check their Website, since sometimes the printed booklets are out of date. For individual taxpayer assistance with the IRS, call 1-800-829-1040.

• Follow filing instructions exactly and clearly print or type the IRS mailing address to avoid delays in the processing of your tax return and possible misdirection of your return.

Resources

• Tax professionals filing on behalf of your client, go to this IRS page to find where to file IRS forms
• Individual taxpayers, go to this IRS page to find where to file IRS forms
• Government and tax-exempt organizations, go to this IRS page to find where to file IRS forms
• For sending the IRS certain other forms including for your estimated taxes (1040-ES) check out this IRS page