The IRS mailing address depends on your state and whether you're sending a paper return
The IRS publishes a different mailing address for each state. You cannot mail your return to a single national address — using the wrong one delays processing and may cause your return to be misrouted. The address you need is listed in the instructions that came with your tax form, or on the IRS website under "Where to File — Paper Filers."
If you live in one of the states served by an IRS campus, that campus is your destination. For example, taxpayers in California, Hawaii, and Guam mail to Fresno, California. Taxpayers in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and parts of Pennsylvania mail to Holtsville, New York. The IRS maintains separate addresses for different filing situations — for instance, if you are claiming a refund versus if you owe tax — so check the exact instructions for your form before you seal the envelope.
Key Takeaways
- Each state has its own IRS mailing address, and using the wrong address delays processing.
- The correct address for your state appears in the instructions included with your tax form or on the IRS website under "Where to File."
- Some addresses differ based on whether you are claiming a refund or paying tax owed, so read the form instructions carefully.
- The IRS recommends sending paper returns by certified mail with return receipt so you have proof of delivery.
- Most tax software now files electronically, which is faster and more accurate than mailing a paper return.
How to find the correct address for your state
Start with the instruction booklet that came with your tax form. The IRS prints the mailing address for each state on the first few pages, usually under a heading like "Where to File" or "Mailing Your Return." If you downloaded the form from the IRS website, the instructions are a separate PDF file.
If you do not have the instructions, go to IRS.gov and search for "Where to File — Paper Filers." The IRS maintains a table organized by state that shows the mailing address for each filing situation. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and ask for the address that matches your state and return type.
Mailing addresses by region
The IRS operates processing centers in different regions. Here are the main locations and the states they serve:
| Region | States Served | Mailing Address Location |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, parts of Pennsylvania | Holtsville, New York |
| Southeast | Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, parts of North Carolina and Virginia | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Midwest | Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, parts of Iowa and Minnesota | Kansas City, Missouri |
| Southwest | Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana | Austin, Texas |
| West | California, Hawaii, Guam | Fresno, California |
| Mountain | Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona | Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Pacific Northwest | Washington, Oregon, Alaska | Seattle, Washington |
This table shows the general regions, but the exact address for your state may differ based on your filing situation. Always check the form instructions or the IRS website for the precise address before mailing.
What to include with your return when you mail it
Include all pages of your tax form, all schedules and attachments, and a copy of any documents the IRS requested — such as receipts for charitable donations or proof of education expenses. Do not send original documents unless the IRS specifically asks for them in writing.
Include a check or money order if you owe tax. Write your Social Security number, tax year, and "1040" on the front of the check. Do not send cash. If you are expecting a refund, you do not need to include anything extra — the IRS will mail your refund to the address on your return.
Use a mailing envelope large enough to hold your return flat. Do not fold or bend the pages. The IRS processes returns faster when they arrive in good condition.
How to mail your return safely
Use first-class mail or certified mail with return receipt. Certified mail costs a few dollars more but gives you proof that the IRS received your return. Keep the receipt until you receive confirmation that the IRS processed your return — this usually takes 4 to 6 weeks for paper returns.
Do not use overnight delivery or priority mail unless you are mailing close to the deadline. The IRS processes mail in the order it arrives, so faster delivery does not speed up processing time. If you are mailing on or near the tax deadline (usually April 15), use certified mail so you have proof of the mailing date in case there is a delay.
Write your name and address on the outside of the envelope. Do not include any other information on the envelope itself — no tax year, no form number, nothing that might confuse the mail sorter.
Why electronic filing is faster than mailing
The IRS processes electronic returns in 24 hours and refunds in 21 days or less. Paper returns take 4 to 6 weeks to process, and refunds can take 6 to 8 weeks. If you file electronically, you also receive an immediate confirmation that the IRS received your return, whereas paper filers must wait weeks to know whether their return arrived.
Most tax software now files electronically for free or for a small fee. If you cannot afford tax software, the IRS Free File program offers free electronic filing through partner companies if your income is below a certain threshold (the threshold changes each year). You can also work with a tax preparer or accountant to file electronically on your behalf.
What happens after you mail your return
The IRS typically acknowledges receipt of a paper return within 4 to 6 weeks. If you mailed your return by certified mail, you will receive a receipt showing the delivery date. Keep this receipt until you receive a letter from the IRS confirming that they processed your return.
If you are owed a refund, the IRS will mail it to the address on your return. Refunds from paper returns typically arrive 6 to 8 weeks after the IRS processes the return. You can check the status of your refund on the IRS website using the "Where's My Refund?" tool, though this tool is most accurate for electronic returns.
If the IRS has questions about your return, they will mail you a letter asking for more information or documentation. Respond to the letter within the timeframe they provide, usually 30 days. Do not ignore IRS letters, as failure to respond can result in penalties or a reduced refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mail my return to any IRS office?
No. You must use the mailing address for your state. Mailing to the wrong address delays processing and may cause your return to be lost or misrouted. The correct address is in your form instructions or on the IRS website.
What if I mail my return and never hear back?
Wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after mailing before contacting the IRS. If you mailed by certified mail, check the receipt to confirm delivery. If the IRS received your return but has not processed it after 6 weeks, call 1-800-829-1040 to ask about the status. Have your Social Security number and tax year ready.
Is it safe to mail a check with my tax return?
Yes, but use certified mail with return receipt so you have proof of delivery. Write your Social Security number and tax year on the check. The IRS receives thousands of checks by mail daily and has systems in place to track them. Do not send cash.
Can I mail my return after the April 15 deadline?
If you owe tax, mailing after April 15 results in penalties and interest on the amount owed, even if your return was postmarked on time. If you are owed a refund, there is no penalty for mailing late, but you will receive your refund later. If you cannot meet the deadline, file for an extension before April 15.
Should I keep a copy of my return after I mail it?
Yes. Keep a copy of every page of your return, all schedules, and proof of mailing (such as a certified mail receipt) for at least three years. The IRS can audit returns up to three years after filing, and you will need these documents if questions arise.