Have you recently moved? Or perhaps you're planning a move soon? If so, one crucial task you absolutely cannot overlook is updating your address with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Failing to do so can lead to a host of headaches, from missed tax refunds and important notices to potential penalties and complications down the line. The good news is, changing your address with the IRS is a relatively straightforward process, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step!
Let's dive in and make sure your tax information is always up-to-date.
The Importance of Keeping Your Address Current with the IRS
Before we get into the "how-to," let's quickly underscore why this is so vital. The IRS relies on the most current address they have on file to send you official correspondence, including:
- Tax refunds: If you're expecting a paper check, it will go to the last address they have.
- Notices and letters: These can include important information about your tax account, audits, payment reminders, or changes to tax laws that affect you.
- W-2s and 1099s (in some cases): While most of these come from employers or financial institutions, the IRS uses your address for various records.
- Other vital tax documents: Missing these could result in missed deadlines, penalties, or even identity theft if an unauthorized party intercepts your mail.
While the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) might forward your mail, it's not a foolproof solution, especially for government checks. It's always best to notify the IRS directly.
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| How Update Address With Irs |
Step 1: Determine Who Needs to Update Their Address
This might seem obvious, but it's the first crucial step.
- Are you an individual taxpayer who has moved? This is the most common scenario.
- Did you file a joint return, and now you and your spouse have different addresses? Each of you needs to notify the IRS separately of your new address.
- Are you a business owner or responsible party for a business that has changed its mailing address or physical location? Businesses have a slightly different form.
- Are you an authorized representative (like an accountant or attorney) changing an address on behalf of a taxpayer? You'll need specific documentation.
Knowing who needs to update helps you choose the correct method and gather the right information.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method of Notification
The IRS offers several ways to update your address. You can choose the method that best suits your situation and comfort level.
Sub-heading: Method 1: The Recommended and Most Reliable Way – Using IRS Forms
This is generally the most recommended and most effective way to notify the IRS of an address change. It creates a clear record of your request.
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For Individuals: Form 8822, Change of Address
- What it is: This form is specifically designed for individual taxpayers to change their home mailing address for individual, gift, estate, or generation-skipping transfer tax returns.
- When to use it: You can use this form at any time of the year, whether you've already filed your current year's return or not.
- Key information needed: Your full name, Social Security Number (SSN), old address, and new address. If it's a joint return and your spouse is also changing their address, include their name and SSN. If you have a prior name, you'll need to list that too.
- Where to find it: You can easily download Form 8822 directly from the official IRS website (www.irs.gov/form8822). You can also order a physical copy by calling the IRS.
- Processing time: Typically, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process a change of address submitted via Form 8822.
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For Businesses: Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business
- What it is: This form is for businesses and other entities with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to notify the IRS of a change in their business mailing address, business location, or responsible party.
- When to use it: Use this form when your business's mailing address or physical location changes. Changes in responsible parties should be reported within 60 days.
- Key information needed: Business name, EIN, old mailing address, new mailing address, and new business location (if different from mailing address). If there's a change in the responsible party, you'll need their information as well.
- Where to find it: Form 8822-B is also available for download on the IRS website (www.irs.gov/form8822b).
- Processing time: Similar to Form 8822, it generally takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process this change.
Sub-heading: Method 2: Filing Your Next Tax Return with the New Address
If you're close to filing your annual tax return (e.g., Form 1040), you can simply enter your new address in the appropriate boxes on the return itself. When the IRS processes your return, they will automatically update their records with your new address.
- Pros: Convenient if you're filing soon, as it's part of an existing process.
- Cons: You might miss important correspondence if you move before filing and before the IRS updates their system. This method also doesn't provide an immediate confirmation of the change.
Sub-heading: Method 3: Sending a Signed Written Statement
You can also notify the IRS by sending a signed letter. While less structured than using a form, it can be a viable option if you prefer written communication.
- What to include: Your full name, old address, new address, Social Security Number (SSN), and your signature. If you filed a joint return, include the full name, old and new addresses, SSN, and signatures of both spouses. For businesses, include the business name, EIN, old and new addresses, and the signature of an authorized party.
- Where to send it: Mail your signed statement to the IRS center where you filed your last tax return. The addresses for IRS centers are typically found in the instructions for your tax forms or on the IRS website.
- Important Note: Ensure all information is legible and accurate.
Sub-heading: Method 4: Oral Notification (Telephone or In-Person)
You can call the IRS or visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) to update your address verbally.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
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Telephone: Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (for businesses).
- Be prepared: You'll need to verify your identity by providing your full name, old and new addresses, and your SSN/ITIN/EIN. The IRS representative may ask for additional information to confirm your identity.
- Wait times: Be aware that IRS phone lines can have significant wait times, especially during tax season.
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In-Person: You can visit your local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC).
- Appointment recommended: It's highly advisable to schedule an appointment beforehand to avoid long waits. You can find your nearest TAC and its services on the IRS website.
- Bring identification: Have a valid photo ID and any relevant tax documents on hand for identity verification.
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Consideration: While convenient for some, verbal notification doesn't provide a physical record of your request. It's often recommended to follow up with a written method, such as Form 8822, for your own records.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Information
Regardless of the method you choose, you'll need to have the following information readily available:
- Your full legal name (and spouse's full legal name if applicable for a joint return).
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Your spouse's SSN/ITIN (if applicable).
- Your old mailing address (the one currently on file with the IRS).
- Your new mailing address, including apartment, room, or suite number, city, state, and ZIP code. If you're using a P.O. box, ensure it's permissible (generally, only if the USPS doesn't deliver to your street address).
- Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) for businesses.
- The name of your business (if applicable).
- Your signature (and your spouse's signature if filing jointly).
- Power of Attorney (Form 2848) if you are an authorized representative signing for the taxpayer. The IRS will not process an address change from an unauthorized third party.
Step 4: Complete the Form (if applicable)
If you're using Form 8822 or 8822-B, carefully fill out all the required fields.
Sub-heading: Tips for Filling Out Form 8822/8822-B
- Read the instructions carefully: Each form comes with detailed instructions. Don't skip them!
- Type or print legibly: Ensure your handwriting is clear and easy to read to avoid processing delays.
- Double-check all information: A small typo in your SSN or new address can cause significant issues.
- Check all applicable boxes: On Form 8822, there are boxes to indicate which types of returns this address change affects (e.g., individual income tax, gift tax).
- Sign and date the form: An unsigned form will not be processed.
Step 5: Mail Your Form or Statement
Once you've completed Form 8822 or 8822-B, or drafted your written statement, it's time to mail it.
- Where to send it: The mailing address for Form 8822 and Form 8822-B is provided directly on the form's instructions. It varies based on your old mailing address. For written statements, mail it to the IRS center where you filed your last tax return.
- Consider certified mail: For your peace of mind, consider sending the form or statement via certified mail with a return receipt requested. This provides proof that the IRS received your notification.
- Keep a copy for your records: Always make a copy of the completed form or written statement for your personal files.
Step 6: What to Expect Next
After submitting your address change, patience is key.
- Processing time: As mentioned, it generally takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process an address change request.
- Confirmation: For business address changes (Form 8822-B), the IRS typically issues confirmation notices (Notices 148A and 148B) to both the new and former addresses once the change is processed. For individuals, you might not receive a direct confirmation, but you can generally check your IRS online account (if you have one) for updated information after a few weeks.
- Continue to monitor your mail: Keep an eye on your mail at both your old and new addresses during the transition period.
Important Additional Tips
- Notify the USPS: Even if you inform the IRS, it's still crucial to file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to ensure your mail is forwarded while the IRS updates its records.
- Update your employer: Make sure your employer has your current address so your W-2 forms and other employment-related documents are sent to the correct location.
- Financial institutions: Don't forget to update your address with banks, investment firms, and any other financial institutions to ensure you receive important statements and tax documents (like 1099s).
- State tax agencies: Remember that updating your address with the IRS does not automatically update it with your state tax agency. You'll need to contact your state's revenue department separately to update your address for state tax purposes.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if the IRS has my updated address?
While the IRS doesn't typically send a direct confirmation for individual address changes, you can often verify it by checking your IRS online account. You can also monitor for future correspondence to your new address.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
How to change a business address with the IRS?
To change a business address, you must file Form 8822-B, "Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business." This form is specifically for entities with an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
How to update my address if I filed a joint return and now my spouse and I live separately?
If you filed a joint return and now have separate addresses, each spouse must notify the IRS of their new, separate address. This can be done by filing individual Form 8822s or sending separate written statements.
How to get Form 8822 or Form 8822-B?
You can download both Form 8822 and Form 8822-B directly from the official IRS website (www.irs.gov) by searching for the form number. You can also order them by calling the IRS.
How to fill out Form 8822 if I have a P.O. Box?
You can use a P.O. box for your mailing address on Form 8822 only if the U.S. Postal Service does not offer mail delivery to your street address.
How to change my address with the IRS if I am living abroad?
If you move abroad, enter your foreign address on Form 8822 (or 8822-B for businesses) following the country's customary format for postal codes. Do not abbreviate the country name.
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
How to change my address if an authorized representative is doing it for me?
If an authorized representative is changing your address, they must attach a copy of their power of attorney (Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative) to Form 8822 or the written statement.
How to ensure my tax refund goes to my new address?
The most reliable way is to ensure your address is updated with the IRS before your refund is issued. Filing Form 8822 promptly or updating your address on your next tax return are the best methods. If you have direct deposit set up, the refund will go to your bank account regardless of your mailing address.
How to contact the IRS by phone to change my address?
You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (for businesses) to update your address verbally. Be prepared to verify your identity with your name, old and new addresses, and SSN/ITIN/EIN.
How to know if my address change has been processed by the IRS?
While there's no direct confirmation for all changes, the processing time is generally 4-6 weeks. For businesses, you might receive confirmation notices. For individuals, if you receive subsequent IRS correspondence at your new address, you know the change has been processed. You can also try checking your IRS online account.
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