Moving can be an exciting, albeit stressful, time. Amidst all the packing, unpacking, and settling in, it's easy to overlook crucial administrative tasks. But when it comes to the IRS, forgetting to update your address can have serious repercussions. From missing important tax notices to delayed refunds, keeping your address current with the Internal Revenue Service is paramount.
So, are you ready to tackle this essential step and ensure you stay connected with the IRS? Let's dive in!
A Comprehensive Guide: How to Change Your Address with the IRS
The IRS doesn't automatically update your address based on a USPS change of address. You need to proactively notify them. This guide will walk you through the various methods to do so, helping you choose the best option for your situation.
Step 1: Understand Why It's Crucial to Update Your Address
Before we get into the "how," let's quickly understand the "why." Why is it so important to change your address with the IRS promptly?
- Timely Correspondence: The IRS sends critical notices, bills, and other correspondence to the address they have on file. If your address is outdated, you could miss important deadlines, leading to penalties or missed opportunities.
- Refund Delivery: If you're expecting a paper refund check, it will be mailed to your last known address. An outdated address means significant delays in receiving your money, or even the check being returned to the IRS.
- Legal Obligations: The IRS fulfills its legal obligation to notify you by sending mail to the address they have. If you don't receive a notice due to an incorrect address, you are still responsible for any associated penalties or actions.
- Identity Verification: When contacting the IRS, they will often verify your identity by confirming the address they have on file. An incorrect address can complicate this process.
In short, keeping your address updated is a small effort that can save you a lot of headaches down the line.
Step 2: Choose Your Method for Notifying the IRS
The IRS offers several ways to update your address. You can choose the method that best suits your comfort level and urgency.
Sub-heading: Method 1: The Recommended Way - Using Form 8822 (Change of Address)
This is generally the most straightforward and recommended method for individuals to change their home mailing address.
- What it is: Form 8822, "Change of Address (For Individual, Gift, Estate, or Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax Returns)," is specifically designed for this purpose.
- When to use it: Use this form to notify the IRS of a change to your home mailing address. If you're changing a business address, you'll need Form 8822-B. If the address change also affects your children who file their own income tax returns, you'll need to file a separate Form 8822 for each child.
Step 2.1: Obtaining Form 8822
- Download it Online: The easiest way is to download the PDF directly from the IRS website. Simply search "Form 8822 IRS" on their official site (www.irs.gov).
- Order by Mail: You can also order a physical copy of the form by calling the IRS Forms and Publications line at 1-800-829-3676.
- Visit a Local IRS Office: If you prefer, you can pick up a copy at your nearest IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). It's a good idea to check their operating hours and whether an appointment is needed before visiting.
Step 2.2: Filling Out Form 8822
The form itself is relatively simple to complete. Here's what you'll need:
- Your Personal Information: Your full name, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your Old Address: This is the address the IRS currently has on file for you. Be sure to include street number, apartment/suite number, city, state, and ZIP code.
- Your New Address: Your complete new mailing address, including all relevant details.
- Prior Name(s): If you or your spouse changed your name due to marriage, divorce, etc., and that hasn't been updated with the IRS and Social Security Administration, you'll need to include that information.
- Joint Filers: If your last return was a joint return and you are still residing with the same spouse, both you and your spouse should provide your names, SSNs, new address, and signatures on the
form. If you filed a joint return and are now establishing separate residences, each of you should notify the IRS of your new, separate addresses by filing individual Form 8822s. - Signature: This is critical. The taxpayer, executor, donor, or an authorized representative must sign the form.
Step 2.3: Where to Mail Form 8822
The mailing address for Form 8822 depends on your old home mailing address. The instructions on the form itself will provide a clear table indicating where to send it. Do not attach this form to your tax return if you are filing separately.
- Important Note: Generally, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process a change of address request submitted via Form 8822.
Sub-heading: Method 2: Changing Address When Filing Your Tax Return
This is often considered the fastest and easiest way to update your address if you are filing a tax return.
- How it works: Simply enter your new address in the appropriate sections of your tax return (Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR, etc.) when you file.
- Effectiveness: When your return is processed, the IRS will automatically update their records with your new address.
- Consideration: This method is ideal if you're filing a return soon after your move. If your move occurs much earlier in the year, or if you don't plan to file a return for some time, it's advisable to use Form 8822 or another method to ensure timely updates.
Sub-heading: Method 3: Sending a Signed Written Statement
If you prefer not to use a specific form, you can send a signed written statement to the IRS.
- What to include: Your statement must clearly include:
- Your full name
- Your old address
- Your new address
- Your Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or Employer Identification Number
(EIN) - Your signature
- Joint Filers: Similar to Form 8822, if you filed a joint return and are still residing with the same spouse, both of your names, SSNs, new address, and signatures should be on the statement. If you are separating, each individual should send a separate statement.
- Where to mail it: Mail your signed statement to the address where you filed your last tax return. This address can usually be found on the IRS website or on your previous tax return documents.
Sub-heading: Method 4: Oral Notification (Telephone or In-Person)
For those who prefer direct communication, you can notify the IRS of your address change by phone or in person.
- By Telephone: Call the IRS toll-free at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals). Have the following information ready, as the IRS representative will need to verify your identity:
- Your full name
- Your old address
- Your new address
- Your Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or Employer Identification Number
(EIN) - They may request additional information to verify your identity.
- In-Person: You can visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). Again, be prepared to verify your identity with the necessary information. It's advisable to check if an appointment is required beforehand.
While convenient for some, keep in mind that phone lines can have wait times, and in-person visits require traveling to a TAC.
Step 3: Important Considerations After Notifying the IRS
Once you've submitted your address change, there are a few extra steps and points to remember:
Sub-heading: Notify the U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
- While notifying the USPS of your address change may update your address with the IRS via their National Change of Address (NCOA) database, it is not a guarantee and should not be relied upon as your sole method of notifying the IRS.
- Crucially, not all post offices forward government checks. So, even with a USPS forwarding order, your tax refund check might not reach you if your IRS address is outdated. Always directly notify the IRS using one of the methods above.
Sub-heading: Update Your Employer
- If you receive a W-2, ensure your employer has your correct address so that your W-2 reflects the proper information. This helps avoid delays in processing your tax return and potential issues with the IRS matching your information.
Sub-heading: Keep Records
- Always keep a copy of any forms or written statements you send to the IRS, along with a record of when and how you sent them. This documentation can be invaluable if there are any issues or discrepancies later on.
Sub-heading: Processing Time
- Be aware that it can generally take four to six weeks for an address change request to be fully processed by the IRS. Factor this into your planning, especially if you're expecting important correspondence or a refund.
Step 4: What About Business Addresses?
If you need to change a business mailing address or business location, the process is similar but uses a different form.
- Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business: This form is specifically for businesses and organizations to notify the IRS of changes to their mailing address or responsible party information.
- Similar Process: You'll fill out your business name, EIN, old address, and new address.
- Where to File: The instructions on Form 8822-B will provide the correct mailing address based on your business type and location.
If you are changing both a home and business address, use a separate Form 8822 for your personal address and Form 8822-B for your business address.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions about changing your address with the IRS, with quick answers:
How to check if the IRS has my correct address?
Unfortunately, there's no direct online tool to check the address the IRS has on file. You can verify it by reviewing previous IRS correspondence or by calling the IRS directly (be prepared to verify your identity).
How to change my address with the IRS if I'm divorced?
If you filed a joint return previously and are now separated or divorced, each individual should independently notify the IRS of their new, separate addresses by filing a separate Form 8822 or written statement.
How to change my address with the IRS if I moved overseas?
If you move to a foreign address, you still use Form 8822. Be sure to follow the country's practice for entering the postal code and do not abbreviate the country name. The form instructions provide specific mailing addresses for foreign addresses.
How to change my address for my children who file their own taxes?
If your address change also affects the mailing address for your children who filed income tax returns, you must complete and file a separate Form 8822 for each child.
How to update my address if I'm a representative for a taxpayer?
If you are a representative signing for the taxpayer, you must attach a copy of your power of attorney (such as Form 2848) to Form 8822 or your written statement. The IRS will not process an address change from an "unauthorized" third party.
How to ensure my refund check isn't sent to my old address?
To ensure your refund check goes to the correct address, update your address with the IRS as soon as possible using Form 8822 or by noting the new address on your next tax return. Also, ensure you have a mail forwarding order with the USPS.
How to get a confirmation that my address change was processed?
The IRS generally does not send a confirmation notice for individual address changes. However, for employment tax returns, they do issue confirmation notices (Notices 148A and 148B) to both the new and former addresses. You can typically assume it's processed after 4-6 weeks.
How to change my address if I'm awaiting a refund?
If you move while awaiting a refund, immediately update your address with the IRS using Form 8822 or by calling them. This will help prevent significant delays in receiving your check.
How to change my address if I file taxes late?
Even if you file your taxes late, you can still update your address by entering your new address on the late-filed tax return, or by sending in Form 8822 separately. It's always best to have your correct information on file.
How to avoid penalties related to an outdated address?
The best way to avoid penalties related to an outdated address is to promptly notify the IRS of any changes to your mailing address using one of the methods outlined above. Missing critical IRS correspondence due to an incorrect address can lead to accrued penalties and interest, even if you didn't receive the notice.
