How Do You Find Out What Address the IRS Has on File?

Keeping your address updated with the IRS ensures you receive important tax documents, refunds, and correspondence. If the IRS has outdated information, you might miss critical notices or experience delays.

Checking Your Most Recent Tax Return

One of the simplest ways to verify the address the IRS has on file is by reviewing your most recently filed tax return. The address listed on your latest Form 1040 is typically the one used for IRS correspondence. If you moved after filing but didn’t notify the IRS separately, they may still have your old address.

For joint filers, it’s important to check which address was listed, especially if you and your spouse have since separated or divorced. The IRS generally sends notices to the last known address of the primary taxpayer.

If you used tax software or a preparer, you can check the copy of your return stored in your account. Many tax preparation platforms retain past filings, making it easy to verify the address used. If you filed by mail and don’t have a copy, you may need to retrieve one from your records or request a transcript.

Requesting a Tax Transcript

A tax transcript provides a summary of your tax return information, including the address associated with your most recently processed return. This is useful if you no longer have access to your last filing or want to confirm whether the IRS has updated your records after a move.

For address verification, the Tax Return Transcript or the Wage and Income Transcript are the most relevant. The Tax Return Transcript includes key details from your Form 1040, while the Wage and Income Transcript compiles data from W-2s and 1099s, which may also contain your address if reported by an employer or financial institution.

You can request transcripts online through the IRS Get Transcript tool, by mail using Form 4506-T, or by calling the IRS automated phone system. The online option is the fastest, typically providing access within minutes if you pass identity verification. Mailed transcripts take five to ten days and are sent to the address currently on file, so if your address is outdated, you may need an alternative method.

Reviewing IRS Online Account Information

The IRS provides an online account system where taxpayers can check their personal tax details, including the address on file. Setting up an account requires identity verification, after which users can view their profile details.

Beyond checking the address, the online portal also shows balances due, payment history, and IRS notices. This can help if you’re unsure whether you’ve received correspondence. If you recently moved, the online system may not reflect the change immediately, especially if the update was made through a tax return. If discrepancies arise, further verification may be necessary.

Confirming Via Written or Phone Inquiry

If digital methods don’t provide clarity, you can verify your address by contacting the IRS by phone or mail. Calling 800-829-1040 allows you to speak with a representative who can confirm your address after identity verification, which requires your Social Security number, filing status, and details from a recent return. Wait times vary, especially during peak tax season.

For a documented confirmation, you can mail Form 8822, Change of Address, even if you’re not updating your address but just seeking verification. Alternatively, a signed letter including your full name, old and new addresses, and tax identification number can also prompt a response. Written requests take longer to process but provide a paper trail.

Updating Your Address if Necessary

If the IRS has an outdated address on file, updating it promptly prevents missed correspondence and delays with tax filings or refunds.

Filing Your Next Tax Return

The easiest way to update your address is by including it on your next tax return. When you file Form 1040, the IRS updates its records accordingly. However, this may not be ideal if you need the change to take effect before the next filing season.

Submitting Form 8822

For a faster update, submit Form 8822, Change of Address. This form is used for both individual and business tax records and must be mailed to the appropriate IRS processing center. Processing takes four to six weeks, so plan accordingly if expecting time-sensitive documents.

Notifying the IRS in Writing

You can also send a signed written statement to the IRS, including your full name, old and new addresses, Social Security number, and signature. This letter should be mailed to the IRS office where you last filed your return. Processing follows the same timeline as Form 8822.

Updating Through the U.S. Postal Service

Notifying the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) ensures mail forwarding but does not update IRS records. The IRS may receive forwarded mail temporarily, but taxpayers should notify the IRS directly to ensure uninterrupted correspondence.