How to Update Your Address With the IRS

You can change your address with the IRS by mail, phone, or online, depending on which form you file and whether you have an account set up

The IRS does not automatically know when you move. If you file taxes, receive refunds, or have an outstanding balance, you need to tell them your new address so mail reaches you and your account stays current. The fastest method is usually the IRS online account portal if you have one set up. If you do not, you can call the IRS directly or mail a form. The method that works depends on what kind of tax situation you have and whether you have already filed for the year.

You do not need to update your address before you file if you have not yet submitted your current year's return — you can simply use your new address on the return itself. But if you have already filed, expect a refund, or have a balance owed, notify the IRS right away so correspondence reaches you.

Key Takeaways

The IRS online account portal at irs.gov is the fastest way to change your address if you have already created an account and verified your identity.
You can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 during business hours to report an address change by phone without needing to mail anything.
If you have not yet filed your current year's return, you can simply use your new address when you file — no separate notification needed.
Mailing Form 8822 (for individuals) or Form 8822-B (for businesses) is the official written method, though it takes two to four weeks to process.
If you have a tax professional or power of attorney on file, they can update your address for you.

Using the IRS Online Account Portal

If you have created an account on irs.gov and verified your identity, you can change your address directly in your account settings. Log in, go to your profile or account information section, and update the mailing address. This change takes effect immediately for most purposes, though it may take a few days to show across all IRS systems.

To create an account if you do not have one, you will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and either a prior-year tax return or other identity verification. The IRS uses a third-party verification service to confirm who you are. Once your account is set up, you can change your address anytime without calling or mailing forms.

Calling the IRS to Report Your New Address

You can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 during business hours, usually Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and both your old and new addresses ready. The representative will update your address in the system over the phone. This change usually takes effect within a few days.

Wait times can be long, especially during tax season from January through April. If you reach a busy signal, the IRS recommends calling early in the morning or later in the afternoon. You do not need to mail anything after calling — the phone update is official and requires no follow-up.

Mailing Form 8822 or Form 8822-B

If you prefer to mail your address change, use Form 8822 (Change of Address) for individual tax returns or Form 8822-B for business returns. You can download these forms from irs.gov or request them by phone. Fill in your old address, new address, and Social Security number or employer identification number, sign and date the form, and mail it to the address shown in the form instructions.

Processing a mailed form takes two to four weeks. During that time, mail sent to your old address may still arrive there. If you are expecting a refund or notice, consider calling or using the online portal instead so the change takes effect faster. Keep a copy of the form for your records in case you need to prove you submitted it.

If You Have Not Yet Filed Your Current Year Return

If you moved after the previous tax year but have not yet filed your current year's return, you do not need to notify the IRS separately. Simply use your new address on the return itself when you file. The IRS will record your address from the return you submit.

This applies whether you file on paper or electronically. If you file on paper, make sure your new address is clearly printed in the address block. If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, enter your current address in the appropriate field. The address on your filed return becomes your official address in the IRS system.

If a Tax Professional or Power of Attorney Represents You

If you have a certified public accountant, enrolled agent, or attorney handling your taxes, they can update your address for you. They will need a power of attorney form (Form 2848) on file with the IRS authorizing them to act on your behalf. Once that is in place, they can call the IRS or submit the address change themselves.

Let your tax professional know about your move as soon as possible so they can update it before any notices or correspondence is mailed. If you have a power of attorney on file but have not told your representative about the move, contact them directly and ask them to make the change right away.

What Happens to Mail Sent to Your Old Address

The IRS does not automatically forward mail to your new address, even if you have filed a change-of-address form with the post office. Mail already in the IRS system with your old address may still be sent there. If you are expecting a refund check, notice, or other important document, change your address as soon as possible — ideally before the IRS prints and mails it.

If mail arrives at your old address after you have moved, contact the current resident or property manager and ask them to forward it to you, or write "Return to Sender — Moved" on it and put it back in the mail. You can also contact the IRS directly if you did not receive something you were expecting and ask them to resend it to your new address.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for an address change to show up in the IRS system?

Online and phone changes usually take effect within a few days. Mailed forms take two to four weeks. During the transition period, some mail may still go to your old address, so update as soon as you know you are moving.

Do I need to change my address if I am not filing taxes this year?

If you do not file and do not expect a refund or notice from the IRS, you may not need to update immediately. However, if you have an outstanding balance, owe back taxes, or might receive a notice, update your address so the IRS can reach you.

Can I change my address for just one year or one return?

No. When you update your address with the IRS, it changes your account address going forward. If you need a different address for a specific return, use that address when you file that return, and it will update your account for future years.

What if I moved to a different state?

The process is the same regardless of which state you move to. Use the same methods — online, phone, or mail — and provide your new state address. The IRS will update your account and route future mail to your new state.

Can I change my address if someone else filed taxes using my Social Security number?

Yes, but you should also report the fraudulent filing to the IRS. Call 800-829-1040 and explain the situation. The IRS has procedures for identity theft cases and can help you secure your account and correct your tax record.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.