Can You Fold Tax Returns When Mailing?

Understanding proper mailing procedures is important for accurate and timely submission of your federal income tax return. Mailing your return to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires attention to detail, ensuring all necessary forms are included and sent correctly. Adhering to established guidelines helps facilitate efficient processing and can prevent delays or issues with your tax filing.

Folding Your Tax Return

You can fold your tax return documents when mailing them to the IRS. A return folded to fit into a standard envelope, such as a business-sized #10 envelope, is acceptable. This approach does not cause processing issues for the agency.

While folding is allowed, the IRS prefers documents to be submitted with minimal creasing, as this can make scanning and automated processing easier. However, minor folds from fitting the return into an envelope are not usually a reason for rejection or significant delay. Forms W-2, W-2G, and 1099 should ideally be attached to the front of Form 1040 without being folded, if possible.

Recommended Mailing Practices

Use the correct IRS mailing address, which varies depending on your geographic location, specific tax forms, and whether you are including a payment. Consult the official IRS website or the instructions for your tax form to determine the address. An incorrect address can lead to delays in processing your return.

The postmark date on your envelope is generally considered the filing date if postmarked by the tax deadline. This “timely mailing as timely filing” rule, outlined in Internal Revenue Code Section 7502, applies if the envelope is properly addressed and has sufficient postage. For proof of filing, it is advisable to use services like Certified Mail with a return receipt or a Certificate of Mailing, which provide evidence that your return was sent and received. Certain private delivery services designated by the IRS also qualify under these timely mailing rules.

Preparing Your Mailing Package

When assembling your tax return for mailing, select an appropriate envelope. A standard #10 business envelope can suffice if your return is not excessively large and can be neatly folded. For thicker returns or if you prefer to keep documents unfolded, a larger flat envelope, such as a 9×12 inch manila envelope, is a suitable choice.

Ensuring sufficient postage is another critical step, as insufficient postage can cause delays or make the return undeliverable. A typical tax return with multiple pages often requires more than a single standard postage stamp; have the package weighed at the post office to confirm the postage needed. Include your complete return address in the top-left corner of the envelope. Before sealing, double-check that all required forms, schedules, and payments are securely enclosed and that the return is signed.