How to Update Your Address With the IRS

The fastest way to change your address with the IRS

You can change your address with the IRS in three ways: online through your IRS account, by mail using Form 8822, or by phone. The online method is fastest — you log in, update your address, and it takes effect immediately. If you do not have an online account or prefer to mail, Form 8822 (Change of Address) takes 30 days to process after the IRS receives it. Phone updates go through the automated system and are processed within two weeks.

Which method works best depends on whether you have an IRS online account and how soon you need the change to take effect. If you are expecting a refund or correspondence, updating online or by phone is safer because mail can get lost. If you are moving out of state or changing your name at the same time, include that information so the IRS does not split your records.

Key Takeaways

Update your address online through your IRS account at IRS.gov if you have one — this is the fastest method and takes effect immediately.
Mail Form 8822 (Change of Address) to the IRS address for your state if you do not have an online account; allow 30 days for processing.
Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to update by phone; the automated system processes changes within two weeks.
If you are moving and have a pending refund or tax return, update your address before filing or as soon as you file to avoid delays.
Changing your address does not affect your tax records or filing status — it only updates where the IRS sends mail and notices.

Updating your address online through your IRS account

The IRS online account (called an IRS account or transcript account) lets you change your address without mailing anything or waiting on hold. Go to IRS.gov, select "Sign in" at the top, and log in with your username and password or create one using your Social Security number and tax return information. Once logged in, look for "Profile" or "Account Settings" and select the option to update your address.

The change takes effect right away in the IRS system. This is the safest method if you are expecting a refund, because the IRS will mail it to your new address immediately. If you have not created an IRS account yet, you will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status from your most recent tax return, and a valid ID. The account creation process takes about 10 minutes.

Mailing Form 8822 to the IRS

Form 8822 is a one-page form you fill out and mail to the IRS. You can download it from IRS.gov or request it by phone at 800-829-1040. Fill in your old address, new address, and the date you moved. Sign and date the form, then mail it to the IRS address for your state — this address is printed on the form itself and also listed on IRS.gov under "Where to File."

The IRS processes Form 8822 within 30 days of receiving it. Write your Social Security number clearly on the form so the IRS matches it to your account. If you are filing a joint return, both spouses should sign. Mail the form certified if you want proof the IRS received it, though this is not required. Keep a copy for your records.

Changing your address by phone

Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). The automated system will ask for your Social Security number and other information to verify your identity. Once verified, you can update your address through the phone menu. The system will read back your new address to confirm it is correct before processing the change.

Phone updates are processed within two weeks. Wait times can be long during tax season (January through April), so call early in the day if possible. If you cannot reach the automated system or need to speak to a representative, stay on the line after the menu options — you may be transferred to a person, though this can add significant wait time.

What happens if you move before filing your tax return

If you move and have not yet filed your tax return for that year, use your new address on the return itself. You do not need to notify the IRS separately. The address on your return becomes your official address in the IRS system. Make sure it matches your mailing address exactly, including the ZIP code.

If you have already filed and then move, update your address using one of the three methods above. This prevents the IRS from mailing your refund or notices to your old address. If you filed electronically, the address on your return is what the IRS has on file, so update it as soon as you move.

Updating your address if you have a pending refund

If you are waiting for a refund and you move, update your address before the refund is mailed. You can check the status of your refund on IRS.gov using "Where's My Refund?" — this tool shows you the expected mailing date. If the refund has not been mailed yet, update your address online or by phone immediately. If it has already been mailed to your old address, contact the new occupant or your local post office to see if it can be forwarded.

The post office will forward mail for up to 12 months if you file a change of address with them. However, the IRS sometimes does not include forwarding addresses on refund checks, so updating your address with the IRS is more reliable. If your refund was mailed to your old address and you cannot recover it, you can request a replacement check by calling 800-829-1040.

Changing your address when you move out of state

Moving to a different state does not require extra steps — just update your address using one of the three methods. However, if you are moving from a state with income tax to one without (or vice versa), you may need to file a final return in your old state. This is a tax filing issue, not an address issue, and is separate from notifying the IRS of your move.

Some states require you to notify their tax department separately when you move. Check your old state's tax website or contact their revenue department to see if a final return or notification is needed. The IRS address change does not automatically notify your state tax agency, so handle both separately if required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the IRS to process an address change?

Online changes take effect immediately. Phone updates process within two weeks. Mail (Form 8822) takes about 30 days. If you are expecting correspondence or a refund, online is the safest option because it is fastest and you have immediate confirmation.

Do I need to update my address if I filed electronically?

The address on your electronic return is what the IRS has on file. If you move after filing, update your address separately using one of the three methods so the IRS knows where to send refunds and notices. Do not assume e-filing automatically updates your current address.

What if I do not have an IRS online account?

You can mail Form 8822 or call 800-829-1040 to update by phone. Creating an IRS account takes about 10 minutes and requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and information from your most recent tax return. Once created, you can update your address anytime without waiting.

Will changing my address affect my tax return or refund?

No. Changing your address only tells the IRS where to send mail and notices. It does not change your tax records, filing status, or the amount of any refund you are owed. The refund amount is based on what you reported on your return, not your mailing address.

Can I update my address if I owe taxes?

Yes. Updating your address does not affect any taxes you owe. In fact, updating it is important so the IRS can reach you about payment plans or other options. If you owe, the IRS will mail notices to your new address once you update it.

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.