Table of contents

1.Can you file a paper tax return?

2.Where do I send my 1040EZ tax form?

3.Where do I mail my federal tax return forms?

4.Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mailing Tax Returns

5.Tips for Mailing Your Tax Return Correctly

6.Why Consider Electronic Filing (E-Filing)?

7.Final Thoughts

Below you’ll find a list of every IRS mailing address you need for filing the 1040EZ form, which varies by state.

Here’s where you want to send your forms if you are not enclosing a payment:

Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Kansas City, MO 64999-0014

Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Austin, TX 73301-0014

Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888-0014

Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wisconsin: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Fresno, CA 93888-0014

Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Kansas City, MO 64999-0014

Connecticut, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, West Virginia: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Ogden, UT 84201-0014

California: Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Ogden, UT 84201-0002

Here’s where you want to mail your IRS tax forms if you are enclosing a payment:

Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 931000, Louisville, KY 40293-1000

Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 1214, Charlotte, NC 28201-1214

Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 7704, San Francisco, CA 94120-7704

Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wisconsin: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 802501, Cincinnati, OH 45280-2501

Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 37910, Hartford, CT 06176-7008

Connecticut, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, West Virginia: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 37910, Hartford, CT 06176-7910

California: Internal Revenue Service, PO Box 802501, Cincinnati, OH 45280-2501

If you’re filing a different 1040 income tax form, the IRS’s website has a nifty breakdown of where each form has to go, most depending on whether or not a payment is enclosed.

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Even a minor mistake on your tax return can lead to unnecessary complications. Be sure to double-check the following before sending your documents:

Incorrect or Missing Social Security Numbers – The IRS requires that all Social Security numbers (SSNs) listed on your return match the official records. A simple typo can cause issues with processing or even delay your refund.

Misspelled Names – Ensure that all names on the return are spelled correctly and match the corresponding Social Security card or legal documents. Inconsistent name spellings can raise red flags with the IRS.

Unsigned Returns – An unsigned tax return is invalid and will not be processed. Both spouses must sign if you are filing a joint return. If you are using a tax preparer, confirm whether additional signatures are required.

Incorrect Filing Status – Choosing the wrong filing status can impact deductions, tax credits, and your final tax liability. Review the IRS guidelines to ensure you are selecting the correct status for your situation.

Submitting the Wrong Tax Year Forms – Taxpayers sometimes mistakenly use outdated forms or the wrong year’s paperwork. Be sure to download the latest forms directly from the IRS website to avoid any discrepancies.

To prevent mail-related issues and ensure your return is properly received by the IRS, follow these mailing best practices:

Use Sufficient Postage – Tax returns can be several pages long, and insufficient postage can result in your return being delayed or sent back. Weigh your envelope and check with your postal service to determine the correct postage amount.

Mail to the Correct Address – The IRS mailing address varies depending on your state and whether you are including a payment. Always double-check the correct address for your location on the IRS website before sending your return.

Include All Necessary Forms and Schedules – If your return includes additional forms, such as W-2s, 1099s, or specific schedules, ensure they are attached and in the proper order. Missing attachments can lead to processing delays or IRS inquiries.

Retain Copies of Your Return – Always keep a copy of your tax return, including all supporting documents, for your records. This is especially important if you need to reference your return for future filings or if the IRS has any questions.

Consider Using Certified Mail – Sending your return via certified mail with a return receipt provides proof of mailing and confirms that the IRS has received your documents. This is especially useful if you are filing close to the deadline.

While mailing your tax return is an option, electronic filing (e-filing) is a safer and more efficient alternative. Here’s why many taxpayers opt for e-filing instead of traditional mail:

Fewer Errors – E-filing software automatically checks for common mistakes and miscalculations, reducing the chance of an IRS rejection due to errors.

Faster Processing and Refunds – Paper returns take weeks to process, whereas e-filed returns are typically processed within a few days. If you’re expecting a refund, e-filing allows you to receive it much faster—especially if you choose direct deposit.

Immediate Confirmation of Receipt – Unlike mailing, where you have no immediate proof of delivery, e-filing provides instant confirmation that your return has been received by the IRS.

Enhanced Security – Paper returns can be lost or stolen in transit, whereas e-filing provides a secure way to submit your tax documents without risk of physical mishandling.

Whether you choose to mail your tax return or e-file, accuracy is key. Carefully review your documents, use the correct mailing address, and consider certified mail for added security. If you prefer a faster, more reliable option, e-filing remains the best choice. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your tax return is processed smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.