Oh, the joy (and sometimes the headache!) of moving. One of the most critical tasks after settling into your new digs, especially if you're in the United States, is making sure the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) knows where to find you. Imagine missing a crucial tax refund check, an important notice, or even a stimulus payment simply because the IRS has your old address on file. It happens more often than you'd think!
But don't fret! Changing your address with the IRS is a straightforward process, though it does require a bit of attention to detail. Let's walk through it step-by-step to ensure your tax-related mail always lands in your new mailbox.
How Do I Change My Address with the IRS? A Comprehensive Guide
There are several ways to notify the IRS of your address change, depending on your situation. We'll cover the most common and recommended methods.
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| How Do I Change My Address With The Irs |
Step 1: Determine Your Filing Situation and Urgency
Before we dive into the specific forms and processes, let's consider your current tax situation.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
Sub-heading: Are you an individual or a business?
- If you're an individual taxpayer (filing Forms 1040, 1040-SR, etc.), your primary method will likely involve Form 8822.
- If you're a business owner (filing Forms 720, 940, 941, 990, 1041, 1065, 1120, etc.), you'll primarily use Form 8822-B. This guide will focus mainly on individual address changes, but we'll touch upon business changes as well.
Sub-heading: Have you filed your most recent tax return yet?
- If you haven't filed your tax return for the current year, this is often the easiest way to update your address.
- If you already filed your tax return, or if you need to update your address mid-year, you'll need to take a more direct approach.
Sub-heading: Are you expecting a refund or important correspondence soon?
- If you're anticipating a refund or any critical communication, acting quickly is key to avoid delays or missed mail.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method for Individuals
For individual taxpayers, there are generally four main ways to inform the IRS of a change of address.
Method 1: On Your Next Tax Return (Easiest for Future Filings)
- When to Use This: This is the simplest method if you've moved before filing your current year's tax return.
- How it Works: When you prepare your federal income tax return (e.g., Form 1040), simply enter your new mailing address in the designated spaces. When the IRS processes your return, their records will be updated automatically.
- Important Note: Always double-check that your new address, including any apartment or suite numbers and the correct ZIP code, is accurately entered. Errors here can lead to significant delays.
Method 2: Filing Form 8822, Change of Address (Recommended for Mid-Year Changes)
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When to Use This: This is the most common and recommended method if you've already filed your tax return for the year, or if you need to update your address at any other time of the year (e.g., if you move in July).
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What is Form 8822? Form 8822, titled "Change of Address (For Individual, Gift, Estate, or Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax Returns)," is a specific form designed for this purpose.
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How to Get the Form:
- Online: The easiest way is to download it directly from the IRS website: www.irs.gov/form8822.
- By Phone: You can also order the form by calling the IRS at 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676).
- Local IRS Office: You might be able to pick up a physical copy at a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
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Filling Out Form 8822: A Mini-Guide
- Part I - Complete This Part To Change Your Home Mailing Address:
- Line 1: Check the box that applies to your situation (Individual income tax returns, gift tax, estate tax, etc.). If your last return was a joint return and you are now establishing a separate residence from your spouse, be sure to check the specific box on this line.
- Line 2 (Optional): If this change affects tax returns for your children who filed income tax returns, check this box. You'll need to file a separate Form 8822 for each child.
- Line 3a: Your name (first name, initial, and last name)
- Line 3b: Your social security number
- Line 4a: Spouse's name (first name, initial, and last name) (If applicable, for joint returns)
- Line 4b: Spouse's social security number (If applicable, for joint returns)
- Line 5a: Your prior name(s) (If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, etc. - remember to also notify the Social Security Administration!)
- Line 5b: Spouse's prior name(s) (If applicable)
- Line 6a: Your old address (No., street, apt. no., city or town, state, and ZIP code). If a P.O. box, see instructions.
- Line 6b: Spouse's old address (If different from line 6a)
- Line 7: New address (No., street, apt. no., city or town, state, and ZIP code). This is where your mail will now be sent.
- Signature and Date: This is crucial! The taxpayer (and spouse, if a joint return and you're still residing together) must sign and date the form. If you're a representative signing for the taxpayer, you must attach a copy of your power of attorney (e.g., Form 2848).
- Where to File Form 8822: This is perhaps the most important detail. The mailing address for Form 8822 depends on your old home mailing address. The instructions for Form 8822 include a table that tells you exactly where to mail it. Do NOT attach this form to your tax return. It must be mailed separately. Generally, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process a change of address.
- Part I - Complete This Part To Change Your Home Mailing Address:
Method 3: Written Statement (A Less Common Option)
- When to Use This: If for some reason you cannot use Form 8822, you can send a signed written statement to the IRS.
- What to Include: Your statement must contain:
- Your full name (and spouse's full name if a joint return).
- Your old address.
- Your new address.
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your signature (and spouse's signature if a joint return).
- Where to Mail It: Send this written statement to the IRS center where you filed your last tax return. The addresses for these centers are usually found in the instructions for the tax forms you filed.
Method 4: By Phone (For Direct Communication)
- When to Use This: You can call the IRS to verbally inform them of your address change. This is typically used when an IRS employee contacts you about your account.
- What to Have Ready: You'll need to verify your identity. Be prepared to provide:
- Your full name.
- Your old and new addresses.
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- The IRS may request additional information to verify your identity.
- IRS Phone Numbers: For individuals, you can generally call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Step 3: Special Considerations for Businesses
If you operate a business and need to change your business mailing address or location, you'll generally use:
Sub-heading: Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business
- Purpose: This form is specifically for businesses with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to notify the IRS of changes to their mailing address, business location, or the identity of their responsible party.
- Key Information Needed: Your business name, EIN, old address, new mailing address, and potentially new business location and responsible party information.
- Signing: The form must be signed by the business owner, an officer, or an authorized representative (with a power of attorney).
- Where to File: Similar to Form 8822, the filing address for Form 8822-B is location-dependent and found in the form's instructions.
- Important: If you are changing both your personal home address and your business address, you'll need to file both Form 8822 (for your individual address) and Form 8822-B (for your business address).
Step 4: Don't Forget the Post Office!
While notifying the IRS is critical, it's equally important to notify the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) of your move.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
Sub-heading: Why Notify the USPS?
- Mail Forwarding: The USPS can forward your mail from your old address to your new one for a certain period (usually 6-12 months). This is a crucial safety net for any mail that the IRS might send before their records are fully updated.
- Government Checks: Not all post offices forward government checks. This is why direct notification to the IRS is so important, especially if you're expecting a refund.
Sub-heading: How to Notify the USPS:
- You can do this online at
www.usps.com
Step 5: Other Important Considerations
Sub-heading: Joint Returns and Separate Residences
- If you filed a joint return previously and now have separate residences (e.g., due to divorce or separation), each spouse should notify the IRS individually of their new, separate addresses. Include your SSN and the name and SSN of your former spouse in any correspondence.
Sub-heading: Power of Attorney
- If someone is changing your address on your behalf (e.g., an accountant or family member), they must attach a copy of their power of attorney (such as Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative) to Form 8822 or any written statement. The IRS will not process an address change from an unauthorized third party.
Sub-heading: Processing Time
- Be patient! The IRS generally states that it takes 4 to 6 weeks to process a change of address request. During this time, continue to monitor your mail at both your old and new addresses if possible, and ensure the USPS is forwarding your mail.
Sub-heading: What if you still receive mail at your old address?
- If after 6 weeks you are still receiving IRS correspondence at your old address, you can try calling the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 to inquire about the status of your address change. Have all your personal information and the date you submitted your change of address handy.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your IRS records are up-to-date, preventing unnecessary headaches and ensuring you receive all important tax-related communications. Don't let a simple move turn into a tax season surprise!
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10 Related FAQ Questions
How to: Check if the IRS has my correct address on file?
While there isn't a direct online tool to verify your address with the IRS, you can often confirm it by reviewing recent IRS correspondence. If you haven't received any, or if it's going to your old address, it's a strong indicator you need to update it.
How to: Change my address with the IRS if I filed jointly and am now separated?
Both you and your former spouse should file separate Form 8822s, indicating your new, separate addresses. Include your SSN and your former spouse's name and SSN on your form.
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
How to: Change my business address with the IRS?
For business address changes, you must use Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business. This form is specifically designed for entities with an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
How to: Get Form 8822 for changing my address with the IRS?
You can download Form 8822 directly from the IRS website (www.irs.gov/form8822), or request it by calling the IRS at 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676).
How to: Ensure the IRS receives my address change quickly?
The fastest way to update your address if you haven't filed your return yet is to simply enter your new address on your tax return when you file it. Otherwise, mailing Form 8822 is the standard and most reliable method, though it takes 4-6 weeks to process.
Tip: Keep the flow, don’t jump randomly.
How to: Forward my mail from my old address to my new one?
You should notify the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) of your address change by filling out a change of address request online at
How to: Change my address if I'm a representative for a taxpayer?
If you are changing the address on behalf of a taxpayer, you must attach a copy of your power of attorney (e.g., Form 2848) to Form 8822 or any written statement you submit to the IRS.
How to: Update my address with the Social Security Administration as well?
It's a good practice to update your address with the Social Security Administration (SSA) if you've moved, especially if you've also changed your name. You can do this by contacting the SSA directly.
How to: Handle an IRS notice that was sent to my old address?
If you receive an IRS notice at your old address, even after moving, it's crucial to respond promptly. The IRS considers mail sent to your last known address as having been received. Address the issue in the notice and then ensure you submit your address change with the IRS using one of the methods described above.
How to: Know if my address change with the IRS has been processed?
The IRS generally does not send a confirmation that your address has been changed. The best way to know if it's updated is to see if future correspondence from the IRS arrives at your new address. If not, consider calling the IRS directly to inquire.
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