How to File My Federal Taxes by Mail

Mail your federal income tax return to the IRS.

The Internal Revenue Service offers taxpayers different ways to file their federal income tax returns. Increasingly popular is the method of electronic filing, which allows taxpayers to receive their refunds faster. Taxpayers who elect not to electronically file using a computer can simply mail their tax returns to the IRS.

Instructions

1. Fill out your federal income tax return. Federal income tax forms are available through the IRS's website, at local post offices and at any local IRS offices.

2. Review the information on your federal income tax return thoroughly to correct any mistakes. Tax returns mailed to the IRS are required to have Copy B of the filer's W2s and/or 1099s attached to the return. Any other tax form that shows federal withholding will also need to be attached to your federal income tax return.

3. Mail your tax return to the IRS. The address where your return will be mailed depends on the state where you live as well as whether or not you are receiving a refund or mailing a check to the IRS. All IRS addresses are listed by state in the instruction manual for the tax form you are filing.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure your return is postmarked on or before the tax deadline of April 15.

References

• Internal Revenue Service: Form 1040 Instructions