Are you preparing to move or have you recently moved and realized you need to update your address with the IRS? Don't fret! While it might seem like a daunting task, changing your address with the Internal Revenue Service over the phone is a straightforward process if you're prepared. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you have all the necessary information at hand for a smooth and efficient call.
The Importance of Updating Your Address with the IRS
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's understand why this is so crucial. The IRS communicates with taxpayers primarily through mail. This includes important notices, refund checks, and other vital correspondence. If your address isn't up-to-date, you could miss out on:
- Tax refunds: Your refund check might be sent to your old address, causing delays and potential complications.
- Important notices: You could miss crucial information regarding your tax account, audits, or unresolved issues, potentially leading to penalties or missed deadlines.
- Identity verification: The IRS sometimes sends letters to verify your identity, especially if there's suspicious activity on your account. Missing these could lead to issues with your tax filings.
The IRS does not automatically update your address based on a change of address through the U.S. Post Office. Therefore, you must notify them directly. Now, let's get you set up for success!
Step 1: Get Prepared – Your Pre-Call Checklist
This is where you, the user, come in! Before you even dial the phone, let's gather everything you'll need. This preparation will significantly shorten your call time and prevent multiple calls. Imagine the satisfaction of a quick, seamless process!
Sub-heading: Essential Personal Information
You'll need to confirm your identity with the IRS. Have the following details readily available:
- Your Full Name: As it appears on your most recent tax return. If you've had a name change (e.g., due to marriage), be prepared to provide any prior names as well.
- Your Date of Birth: Simple, yet critical for verification.
- Your Social Security Number (SSN): This is your primary identifier with the IRS. For businesses, you'll need your Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), have that ready instead of an SSN.
- Your Old Address: The complete address previously on file with the IRS. This includes street number, street name, apartment/suite number (if applicable), city, state, and ZIP code.
- Your New Address: Your complete, current mailing address. Again, include all details: street number, street name, apartment/suite number (if applicable), city, state, and ZIP code.
- Your Phone Number: The one you're calling from, and any other contact numbers they might have on file.
Sub-heading: Information for Joint Filers
If you filed a joint return with a spouse, and you are both moving to the new address, or if you've separated and each need to update your addresses, you will need additional information:
- Your Spouse's Full Name: As it appears on your joint return.
- Your Spouse's Social Security Number (SSN): If applicable.
- Your Spouse's Old Address: If different from yours.
- Your Spouse's New Address: If different from yours.
Important Note for Joint Filers: If you filed a joint return but have since separated, each individual should notify the IRS of their new, separate addresses.
Sub-heading: Recent Tax Return Information
The IRS representative may ask questions related to your most recent tax return to further verify your identity. While not always required, having this information handy can expedite the process:
- The tax year of your last filed return.
- Your filing status for that year (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly, Head of Household).
- The adjusted gross income (AGI) from your last filed return. This is a common security question.
- Any tax refund or balance due amount from your last return.
Step 2: Find the Right Number and Optimal Calling Time
Now that you're armed with all the necessary details, it's time to make the call.
Sub-heading: The Main IRS Phone Number for Individuals
For most individual taxpayers, the primary number to call is:
- 1-800-829-1040
This number is for general tax assistance and can handle address changes for individuals.
Sub-heading: Other Relevant IRS Phone Numbers
- For Businesses: If you need to change a business address, you'll generally use the business and specialty tax line: 1-800-829-4933.
- For Tax Forms: If you need to order Form 8822 (Change of Address) to send by mail, you can call 1-800-829-3676. (Though for this guide, we're focusing on the phone change).
- For TTY/TDD Equipment Users: If you are hearing impaired and use TTY/TDD equipment, you can call 1-800-829-4059.
Sub-heading: Best Time to Call the IRS
The IRS experiences high call volumes, especially during tax season (January to April). To minimize your wait time:
- Call during off-peak hours: Generally, early mornings (7 AM to 9 AM local time) or late afternoons (4 PM to 7 PM local time) are less busy.
- Avoid Mondays and Tuesdays: These are typically the busiest days of the week.
- Avoid the filing season entirely if possible: If your move isn't urgent, waiting until after April 15th can lead to shorter wait times.
- Mid-week, mid-day (Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday between 10 AM and 3 PM local time) can also be a good strategy during the off-season.
The IRS general hours for phone assistance are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
Step 3: Making the Call and Navigating the System
You've got your info, you know the number, and you've picked your optimal calling time. Let's dial!
Sub-heading: The Automated System
When you call the IRS, you'll likely encounter an automated system first. Listen carefully to the prompts.
- Do not rush to press buttons: The options can be misleading. Listen for the option that allows you to speak to a representative about your account or general tax inquiries.
- Be prepared for security questions: Even before speaking to a human, the automated system might ask for your SSN or other identifying information to route your call correctly.
Sub-heading: Speaking to a Representative
Once you connect with a live representative:
- Clearly state your purpose: Begin by saying, "I would like to change my mailing address on file with the IRS."
- Be ready to verify your identity: The representative will ask for the information you gathered in Step 1 (full name, SSN, date of birth, old address, and sometimes AGI from a recent return). Be patient and accurate with your responses.
- Provide your new address: Once your identity is confirmed, clearly state your new address, ensuring you spell out street names if they are uncommon or easily mistaken. Repeat the entire address, including city, state, and ZIP code, for confirmation.
- Confirm all details: The representative should read back your old and new addresses to confirm accuracy. Double-check every detail. Any error here could lead to mail going astray.
- Ask about processing time: Inquire about how long it typically takes for the address change to be processed. Generally, it can take 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process an address change request.
Sub-heading: What if the Representative Cannot Change Your Address?
In rare instances, a phone representative might indicate they cannot process your address change over the phone due to specific circumstances (e.g., complex identity verification issues, or if you're a third party without a power of attorney). If this happens:
- Ask for alternatives: Inquire about other methods for changing your address. They will likely direct you to Form 8822 (for individuals) or Form 8822-B (for businesses) to be mailed, or to visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) by appointment.
- Request confirmation: Ask for a reference number for your call, or any confirmation that you attempted to update your address.
Step 4: Post-Call Actions and What to Expect
You've made the call! Now, a few final steps.
Sub-heading: Keep Records
- Note the date and time of your call.
- Record the name or ID number of the IRS representative you spoke with.
- Jot down any confirmation numbers or instructions given.
- Save your new address information in a safe place.
Sub-heading: What to Expect Next
- Processing Time: As mentioned, it generally takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process an address change.
- Continued Mail to Old Address: For a short period, you might still receive some mail at your old address. Ensure you have mail forwarding set up with the U.S. Post Office. Remember, this only forwards mail, it doesn't update the IRS's records.
- Confirmation (Rare): The IRS typically does not send a separate confirmation letter that your address has been updated. The best way to confirm is by observing where future IRS correspondence is sent.
- Monitor Your Mail: Keep an eye on your mail at your new address for any IRS correspondence. If you haven't received anything from the IRS at your new address after the typical processing time (and you were expecting something), you may want to follow up.
Changing your address with the IRS over the phone is a convenient way to keep your tax records current. By following these steps and being prepared, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to confirm if my address has been updated with the IRS?
The IRS generally does not send a separate confirmation of an address change. The best way to confirm is to monitor your mail for future IRS correspondence at your new address. If you haven't received anticipated mail (like a refund or a notice) at your new address after 4-6 weeks, you may call the IRS main line again (1-800-829-1040) to inquire about the status.
How to change my business address with the IRS over the phone?
To change a business address, you'll need to call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. Be prepared to provide your business's full name, Employer Identification Number (EIN), old address, and new address.
How to change my address with the IRS if I filed a joint return and am now separated?
If you filed a joint return and have since separated, each individual must notify the IRS of their new, separate addresses. Both individuals should call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and provide their individual full names, SSNs, old addresses (if different), and new addresses.
How to change my address with the IRS if I've also changed my name?
When calling to change your address, also inform the representative about your name change. You will likely need to provide proof of your name change (e.g., a marriage certificate or court order) if you file Form 8822 or correspond in writing. Over the phone, they may simply update your name based on your verification, but it's crucial to confirm this with the representative.
How to know what information the IRS will ask to verify my identity over the phone?
The IRS will typically ask for your full name, date of birth, Social Security Number (or EIN/ITIN), and your old address. They may also ask for information from your most recently filed tax return, such as your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or filing status, to further confirm your identity.
How to change my address if I'm overseas or an international taxpayer?
International taxpayers can call 267-941-1000 (this is not a toll-free number). Be prepared with your full name, SSN/ITIN, old address (including foreign country name, province/county, and postal code), and new address (including foreign country name, province/county, and postal code).
How to set up mail forwarding with the U.S. Post Office?
You can set up mail forwarding with the U.S. Post Office online at USPS.com or in person at your local post office. While this will redirect your mail, remember that it does not update your address with the IRS, so you must still contact the IRS directly.
How to get an IRS form 8822 if I prefer to mail in my address change?
You can download Form 8822 (Change of Address for individuals) or Form 8822-B (Change of Address or Responsible Party - Business) directly from the official IRS website, IRS.gov. You can also order these forms by calling 1-800-829-3676.
How to avoid long wait times when calling the IRS?
To minimize wait times, call the IRS during off-peak hours: early mornings (7 AM - 9 AM local time) or late afternoons (4 PM - 7 PM local time). Avoid Mondays, Tuesdays, and the peak tax filing season (January to April) if your change isn't urgent.
How to ensure my tax refund goes to my new address after changing it by phone?
Once your address is updated with the IRS, any future refund checks or correspondence will be sent to your new address. However, it takes 4-6 weeks for the change to process. If you are expecting a refund soon after your address change, you may still receive it at your old address if the change hasn't fully processed. Setting up mail forwarding with the USPS is a good temporary measure. If your refund is direct deposited, the address change doesn't directly affect the bank account, but it ensures any related notices reach you.
