So, you've used TurboTax to prepare your tax return, and now you're faced with a choice: e-file or mail? While e-filing is generally faster and more secure, there are times when mailing your return becomes necessary – perhaps you prefer a paper trail, or you're unable to e-file for a specific reason. Whatever your motivation, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of mailing your tax return prepared with TurboTax.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Confirm Your Filing Method – Are You Sure You Want to Mail?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of printing and posting, are you absolutely certain that mailing your tax return is the right choice for you? E-filing offers numerous advantages:
Faster Refunds: The IRS processes e-filed returns much quicker than paper ones, leading to significantly faster refunds.
Increased Accuracy: E-filing has built-in error checks, reducing the chance of common mistakes that can delay processing.
Proof of Submission: You receive immediate confirmation that your return has been received by the IRS.
Environmental Impact: It's a paperless option, which is better for the environment.
However, if you've weighed these factors and still prefer to mail, or if e-filing isn't an option for your specific situation, then let's proceed!
Step 2: Prepare Your TurboTax Return for Printing
This is where you tell TurboTax you'll be mailing your return. The exact steps might vary slightly depending on whether you're using TurboTax Online or the Desktop (CD/Download) version.
Sub-heading 2.1: For TurboTax Online Users
Log In and Navigate to the "File" Section:
Sign in to your TurboTax Online account.
Once you're in your "Tax Home," look for a section related to "File" or "Finish and File."
You might see a screen like "[Your name], just (...) more steps and we'll file your returns."
Change Your Filing Method to "File by Mail":
Proceed through the filing steps. If you've already chosen e-file, you'll need to change your filing method.
Look for an option like "Change filing method" or "Change next to the return you want to file by mail."
Select the "File by mail" option. This typically applies to both your federal and state returns.
Address Payment for TurboTax Fees (if applicable):
Important Note: If you initially chose to pay your TurboTax fees out of your federal tax refund, you will likely not see the "File by mail" option available. This is because a refund processing fee is associated with that payment method, which is tied to e-filing.
You'll need to change your payment method to a credit or debit card to proceed with mailing. TurboTax will prompt you to do this if necessary.
Sub-heading 2.2: For TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) Users
Ensure Your Return is Complete and Reviewed:
Before printing, make sure you've thoroughly reviewed your return within the TurboTax software. Go through the "Review" step to catch any potential errors.
Access the Print Option:
In your TurboTax Desktop software, look for a "File" or "Print" menu option.
You'll usually find an option to "Print for filing" or "Print to mail."
Select Printing Options:
TurboTax will give you options for what to print. Crucially, ensure you select the option to include "government and TurboTax worksheets" as this will contain the necessary filing instructions and all official forms.
Step 3: Print Your Tax Return
Once you've selected "File by Mail" in TurboTax, the software will guide you through the printing process.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: TurboTax will generate a PDF of your tax return. Follow the on-screen prompts to print it.
Use High-Quality Paper and a Reliable Printer: Ensure your printer has enough ink/toner and that you're using standard white paper. Avoid special paper or colored ink.
Print All Pages: Your tax return can be many pages long. Print every single page generated by TurboTax for filing. Do not omit any schedules or forms.
Print Multiple Copies (Highly Recommended!):
Print at least two copies of your complete tax return.
One copy is for mailing to the IRS (and your state, if applicable).
The other copy is for your personal records. You should keep tax records for at least three years from the date you filed your original return or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. It's often recommended to keep them for seven years.
Step 4: Assemble Your Federal Tax Return for Mailing
This step is critical for ensuring your return is processed correctly by the IRS.
Sign Your Federal Return:
Locate the signature lines on your Form 1040 (or 1040-SR).
You MUST sign and date your return. If you're filing a joint return, both spouses must sign and date it.
Attach Required Documents to Form 1040:
Forms W-2, W-2G, and 1099-R (with tax withheld): If you had taxes withheld from your wages, gambling winnings, or retirement distributions, you must attach the original or copies of these forms to the front of your Form 1040. Staple them in the designated area (usually at the top left corner).
Other Forms and Schedules: Assemble any other schedules and forms behind your Form 1040 in the order indicated by the "Attachment Sequence No." in the upper right-hand corner of each form. TurboTax usually prints them in the correct order, but it's wise to double-check.
Include Payment (if applicable):
If you owe federal tax, do NOT staple or attach your check or money order to your Form 1040.
Make your check or money order payable to the "United States Treasury."
On the front of your check or money order, clearly write your name, address, daytime phone number, Social Security number(s) (both spouses if joint), and the tax year (e.g., "2024 Form 1040").
Place your check or money order on top of your tax return, without stapling it. You can use a paper clip if you wish, but it's not required.
Consider using Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, which TurboTax will generate if you owe taxes. Fill it out and include it with your payment.
Step 5: Assemble Your State Tax Return for Mailing (if applicable)
If you have a state income tax, you'll likely need to mail a separate return to your state's tax agency.
Print Your State Return Separately: TurboTax will generate separate PDFs for your federal and state returns. Make sure you print your state return as a distinct document.
Sign Your State Return: Just like your federal return, sign and date your state tax return. Both spouses must sign a joint state return.
Attach State-Specific Documents: Follow your state's specific instructions for attaching supporting documents like W-2s. Many states have similar requirements to the federal government.
Include State Payment (if applicable):
If you owe state tax, make your check or money order payable to your state's treasury or department of revenue (e.g., "Maharashtra State Treasury").
Write your name, address, Social Security number, and the tax year on the payment.
Do not staple your payment to the return unless the state specifically instructs you to.
Step 6: Find the Correct Mailing Addresses
This is one of the most crucial steps. Mailing your return to the wrong address will cause significant delays.
Sub-heading 6.1: Federal Tax Return Mailing Address
Consult Your TurboTax Filing Instructions: When you print your return for mailing, TurboTax will typically include a Filing Instructions page as the first page of your printout. This page will provide the precise IRS mailing address for your federal return. The address can vary based on your state of residence and whether you're including a payment.
Use the IRS Website: If for any reason the address is missing from your TurboTax printout, or you want to double-check, always refer to the official IRS website. Go to IRS.gov and search for "Where to File Paper Tax Returns With or Without a Payment." The IRS provides tables listing addresses by state and whether you're enclosing a payment.
Sub-heading 6.2: State Tax Return Mailing Address
Consult Your TurboTax Filing Instructions: Your TurboTax printout for your state return will also include mailing instructions and the correct address for your state's tax agency.
Visit Your State's Department of Revenue Website: Each state has its own Department of Revenue or equivalent tax authority. Search for "[Your State] Department of Revenue" and look for "Where to File" or "Mailing Addresses."
Step 7: Package Your Returns and Mail Them
You're almost there! Proper packaging ensures your return arrives safely.
Use a Sturdy Envelope: A standard business-size envelope (e.g., #10) is usually sufficient for most returns. For very thick returns, a larger flat envelope is better.
Separate Federal and State Returns: Always mail your federal and state tax returns in separate envelopes. They go to different government agencies.
Address the Envelopes Clearly:
Write the complete and accurate mailing address of the IRS (for federal) and your state's tax agency (for state).
Include your return address in the top left corner.
Affix Sufficient Postage:
Do NOT guess on postage. Take your envelopes to the post office and have them weighed to ensure you apply the correct amount of postage. Insufficient postage will result in your return being returned to you, causing delays.
The USPS website also has a postage calculator, but for tax returns, in-person weighing is the safest bet.
Consider Proof of Mailing:
For peace of mind, especially if you're mailing close to the deadline, consider using a mailing service that provides proof of mailing and/or proof of delivery.
Certified Mail with Return Receipt: This provides proof that you mailed it and confirmation of delivery. Highly recommended for important documents like tax returns.
Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express: These services also offer tracking.
Keep your mailing receipt or Certificate of Mailing for your records. This is your proof that you sent your return on time.
Step 8: Keep Copies and Track Your Return
Your responsibility doesn't end once you drop the envelope in the mailbox.
Retain Your Personal Copy: Store your printed personal copy of the tax return and all supporting documents (W-2s, 1099s, receipts, etc.) in a safe, organized place.
Understand Processing Times: Paper-filed returns take significantly longer to process than e-filed ones. The IRS typically states it can take 6 to 8 weeks or even longer to process a mailed return and issue a refund.
Check Refund Status (if applicable):
You can check the status of your federal refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on their website (IRS.gov/refunds). You'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
For state refunds, check your state's Department of Revenue website for a similar tool.
Be patient: It may take several weeks before your mailed return even shows up in the IRS system.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to change from e-file to mail in TurboTax?
To change from e-filing to mailing in TurboTax Online, navigate to the "File" section, then look for an option to "Change filing method" or "Change" next to your return. Select "File by mail." Be aware that you might need to change your payment method for TurboTax fees from "pay by refund" to credit/debit card.
How to print my tax return from TurboTax for mailing?
After selecting "File by mail" in TurboTax, the software will generate a PDF of your return. Follow the on-screen prompts to print it. Ensure you select the option to include "government and TurboTax worksheets" for a complete, mail-ready copy.
How to find the correct mailing address for my federal tax return?
The correct mailing address for your federal tax return will be provided on the "Filing Instructions" page generated by TurboTax when you print your return for mailing. You can also find it on the official IRS website by searching "Where to File Paper Tax Returns With or Without a Payment."
How to find the correct mailing address for my state tax return?
Similar to federal returns, the mailing address for your state tax return will be on the "Filing Instructions" page when you print your state return from TurboTax. Alternatively, visit your state's Department of Revenue website and search for their mailing addresses.
How to properly assemble my federal tax return for mailing?
Sign and date your Form 1040. Staple your W-2s, W-2Gs, and 1099-Rs (with tax withheld) to the front of Form 1040. Arrange all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 according to their "Attachment Sequence No." If paying, place your check/money order (with required info) on top, do not staple.
How to ensure I have enough postage for my mailed tax return?
Take your assembled tax return(s) to the post office and have them weighed. This is the most reliable way to ensure you apply the correct amount of postage. Insufficient postage will lead to delays.
How to get proof of mailing for my tax return?
For proof of mailing, consider using services like Certified Mail with Return Receipt, or Priority Mail with tracking, offered by the USPS. Keep the receipt provided by the postal service as your official proof of mailing.
How to check the status of my mailed federal tax refund?
You can check the status of your federal tax refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool available on IRS.gov/refunds. You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount. Be aware that it takes several weeks for mailed returns to show up in the system.
How to correct a mistake after mailing my tax return?
If you discover a mistake after mailing your tax return, you will likely need to file an amended return using Form 1040-X. Do not send another copy of your original return. Wait for the IRS to process your initial return before filing an amendment.
How to keep proper records of my mailed tax return?
Print and keep at least one complete copy of your tax return, including all schedules and forms, for your personal records. Also, retain copies of all supporting documents (W-2s, 1099s, receipts, etc.) and any proof of mailing receipts.