How to Notify the IRS When You Move

How to tell the IRS your new address

You can notify the IRS of an address change through Form 8822, which you mail to the IRS service center for your state. You can also update your address online through your IRS account at IRS.gov if you have one set up. The IRS processes address changes within 4 weeks when mailed, though online updates may show faster. If you file taxes before updating your address, use your new address on the return itself — the IRS will update their records from what appears on your tax form.

The method you choose depends on whether you have an IRS online account and how soon you need the change recorded. Mailing Form 8822 is the most common route and works even if you do not have an online account. Updating through your IRS account is faster but requires you to have already registered.

Key Takeaways

Form 8822 is the official document to notify the IRS of an address change, and you mail it to the service center that handles your state.
You can update your address online through your IRS account at IRS.gov without mailing anything, though you must have registered for an account first.
If you file a tax return before notifying the IRS, put your new address on the return and the IRS will update their records from that.
Address changes take about 4 weeks to process by mail, so notify the IRS before you expect correspondence at your new location.
Updating your address prevents tax refunds, notices, and other IRS mail from going to your old address.

Mailing Form 8822 to the IRS

Form 8822 is a one-page form titled "Change of Address." You fill in your old address, new address, and the date you moved. You do not need to explain why you moved or provide documentation — just the form itself. You can download Form 8822 from IRS.gov or request a copy by calling 1-800-829-3676.

Mail the completed form to the IRS service center for your state. The address where you send it depends on which state you live in now. The IRS website lists the correct mailing address for each state's service center. Do not mail it to a local IRS office; it must go to the service center. The IRS typically processes the form within 4 weeks of receipt.

Keep a copy of Form 8822 for your records. You do not need to sign it, but you should include your Social Security number or employer identification number so the IRS can match the form to your account.

Updating your address through your IRS account online

If you have registered for an IRS online account at IRS.gov, you can update your address without mailing anything. Log in to your account, go to the profile or account settings section, and look for the option to update your address. The exact location varies slightly depending on which IRS tool you use, but it is usually labeled "Update Address" or "Change Address."

Online updates often process faster than mailed forms, sometimes within days. However, you must have already created an IRS account before you can use this method. Creating an account requires verifying your identity through a third-party service, which can take time if you have not done it yet. If you need to change your address immediately and do not have an account, mailing Form 8822 is faster than setting up an account first.

What happens if you file taxes before notifying the IRS

If you file a tax return after moving but before formally notifying the IRS, put your new address on the return. The IRS will update their records based on the address shown on your tax form. This means you do not have to file Form 8822 separately if you are filing a return soon anyway — the return itself serves as your address notification.

This works for both federal income tax returns and other forms you file with the IRS. The key is that the address on your return must be your current address. If you file electronically, the address you enter during filing is what the IRS records.

When to notify the IRS of your move

Notify the IRS as soon as you know your new address, ideally before you move or within a few days after. This prevents tax refunds, notices about unpaid taxes, and other important IRS mail from going to your old address. If mail goes to your old address and you no longer live there, you may not receive it in time to respond.

If you are expecting a refund, updating your address before the IRS processes it is especially important. Refunds are mailed to the address on file, so if that address is outdated, the check may be returned to the IRS. You would then have to contact the IRS to request a replacement check or direct deposit to your bank account instead.

If you have a payment plan with the IRS or an ongoing audit, notify them of your address change right away. The IRS will use your address on file to send payment notices and audit correspondence, and missing these deadlines can result in penalties.

Address changes for businesses and self-employed filers

If you own a business or are self-employed, you may need to update your address with the IRS in more than one place. You should file Form 8822 for your personal tax account. If your business has an employer identification number (EIN), you also need to notify the IRS of any change to the business address. You can do this by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and speaking with a representative, or by mailing Form 8822-B, which is the business version of the address change form.

If you operate as a sole proprietor and your business address is the same as your home address, one Form 8822 covering your personal address change may be sufficient. However, if your business has a separate address or you have employees, updating the business address separately ensures that payroll notices and other business correspondence reaches the correct location.

What to do if the IRS sends mail to your old address

If you receive IRS mail at your old address after you have moved, contact the post office and ask them to forward it to your new address. The post office can forward mail for up to 12 months after you file a change of address with them. However, some IRS mail cannot be forwarded by the post office, so you may need to contact the IRS directly.

If you do not receive mail you were expecting from the IRS, log into your IRS account online to check for any notices or messages. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to ask whether they have sent anything to you and to confirm that your address is updated in their system. Have your Social Security number and a copy of your most recent tax return ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take the IRS to update my address?

Mailed Form 8822 typically takes about 4 weeks to process. Online updates through your IRS account may process within days. If you file a tax return with your new address, the IRS updates their records based on that return, which is processed according to the normal tax filing timeline.

Do I need to notify the IRS if I move within the same city?

Yes, you should notify the IRS of any address change, including moves within the same city. The IRS uses your address on file to send refunds, notices, and other correspondence. An outdated address can cause mail to be delayed or returned, even if you are in the same area.

Can I update my address over the phone?

You cannot update your address by calling the IRS directly. You must use Form 8822 by mail, update your online IRS account, or include your new address on a tax return you file. If you call the IRS for another reason, you can confirm that your address is correct in their system, but you cannot change it during the call.

What if I moved and did not file taxes that year?

File Form 8822 by mail or update your address through your online IRS account. Do not wait until you file your next tax return to notify the IRS, because the IRS may send notices or refunds in the meantime. Updating your address now ensures you receive any correspondence the IRS sends before your next filing deadline.

Do I need to notify the IRS if I moved to a different state?

Yes, notify the IRS of any move to a different state. Your state matters for tax purposes, and the IRS needs your correct address to send state-related notices and to coordinate with state tax agencies. Use Form 8822 and mail it to the service center for your new state.

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.