When you mail in your tax return
When you mail in your tax return, you'll need to follow these steps:
- Make sure you have all the necessary documents: Gather all the necessary documents, such as your W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and any other relevant tax-related documents.
- Complete your tax return: Fill out your tax return (Form 1040) accurately and completely. You can use tax preparation software or a tax professional to help you with this step.
- Sign and date your return: Sign and date your tax return in the appropriate spaces.
- Attach all required documents: Attach all required documents, such as W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and any other relevant tax-related documents.
- Use the correct mailing address: Use the correct mailing address for your tax return. You can find the address on the IRS website or on the instructions for your tax return.
- Use a trackable delivery method: Use a trackable delivery method, such as certified mail or a delivery service that provides tracking information, to ensure your return is delivered to the IRS.
- Keep a copy of your return: Keep a copy of your tax return and all supporting documents for your records.
Mailing addresses for tax returns:
- For paper returns:
- Individual taxpayers: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 1303, Charlotte, NC 28201-1303
- Business taxpayers: Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 802551, Cincinnati, OH 45280-2551
- For electronic returns (e-file):
- You can e-file your tax return through tax preparation software or a tax professional.
Important deadlines:
- The deadline for filing individual tax returns is typically April 15th of each year.
- The deadline for filing business tax returns varies depending on the type of business and the type of tax return.
Tips and reminders:
- Make sure to file your tax return on time to avoid late filing penalties.
- If you owe taxes, you can pay online, by phone, or by mail.
- If you're due a refund, you can choose to have it direct deposited into your bank account or receive a paper check.
- Keep in mind that the IRS may take several weeks to process your tax return and issue any refund you're due.