How to Mail Tax Returns to the IRS
The Internal Revenue Service requires that most people earning over a certain amount file taxes by April 15 each year. Failure to file a tax return can result in fines of up to $25,000 and one year of prison for each unfiled tax year. Filing on time also ensures that the IRS has time to return any excess taxes to you. If you don't file within the three-year statute of limitations, you also forfeit any money the IRS may owe you. After your tax return is prepared, it is important to know how and where to mail it.
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Instructions
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Check the IRS Addresses for Individual Taxpayers by State database if you are an individual filer or are married and filing jointly. There is a link to the IRS processing center for each state. Find a link in References.
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Check the IRS Addresses for Tax Professionals by State database if you are a professional tax preparer mailing taxes on behalf of a filer. Each state is listed with the correct mailing address. Find a link in References.
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Send your return to the IRS Center in Ogden, Utah, if you are mailing a return for a government entity or tax-exempt organization. Use the following address:
Internal Revenue Service Center
Ogden, UT 84201-0027 -
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File your employee retirement plan returns to the correct EBSA address listed on the IRS Where to File website. Note that there are two addresses listed for employee retirement plans. The first address is for IRS Form 5500 and the second address is for IRS Form 5500-EZ. See References for a link to these addresses.
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Ensure that you include correct postage on your envelope. The Postal Service may delay your mailing or send it back to you for correct postage. This may cause your return to miss the IRS deadline and could result in penalties being assessed against you.
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Tips & Warnings
Sending your return by certified mail can give you reassurance that the IRS has received your return. Occasionally returns may be lost in the mail, which could lead to penalties for you.
