Where to Mail Federal Tax Returns in Wisconsin

Filing federal taxes can be done electronically, but some taxpayers still need to mail their returns. Whether due to personal preference or specific IRS requirements, knowing the correct mailing address is essential to avoid delays or misprocessing.

To ensure your return reaches the right place, use the appropriate address based on whether you’re including a payment.

Determining If Mailing Is Required

The IRS encourages electronic filing because it’s faster, reduces errors, and provides confirmation of receipt. However, some taxpayers must file by mail due to specific circumstances, such as submitting forms not supported by e-file, filing an amended return (Form 1040-X), or responding to an IRS request for a paper submission.

Certain credits and deductions also require paper filing, such as the Adoption Credit (Form 8839) or the Residential Energy Credit (Form 5695). Taxpayers reporting foreign income (Form 2555) or claiming treaty benefits as a nonresident alien (Form 1040-NR) may also need to file by mail.

If an e-filed return is repeatedly rejected due to mismatched information—such as an incorrect Social Security number or prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)—a paper return may be necessary. First-time joint filers may also face e-filing restrictions if their spouse’s information doesn’t match IRS records.

Addresses for Returns With Payment

Taxpayers mailing a return with a payment must send it to the correct IRS processing center based on their location. Wisconsin residents enclosing a check or money order should mail their return to:

Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 802501
Cincinnati, OH 45280-2501

To ensure proper processing, include Form 1040-V, the payment voucher, placing it on top of the return without stapling it to the check. Payments should be made payable to “United States Treasury,” with the taxpayer’s Social Security number, tax year, and form number (e.g., “2024 Form 1040”) written on the check.

Using a trackable mailing method, such as Certified Mail with a return receipt or a private delivery service like FedEx or UPS, helps confirm timely delivery. If using a private carrier, the IRS requires a street address instead of a P.O. box, which can be found on the IRS website.

Addresses for Returns Without Payment

Taxpayers filing without a payment must use a different IRS processing center. Wisconsin residents should mail their return to:

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Kansas City, MO 64999-0002

Sending a return to the wrong address can cause delays, as it may need to be rerouted before processing. Certified Mail or a private carrier provides proof of delivery. If using FedEx or UPS, taxpayers must use an IRS-designated street address instead of a P.O. box, which is listed on the IRS website under “Private Delivery Services.”

Ensuring Proper Documentation

A complete and accurate tax return requires all necessary forms and supporting documents. Missing schedules or supplemental forms—such as Schedule C for self-employment income or Schedule D for capital gains—can lead to delays or IRS adjustments.

Taxpayers should ensure reported income matches IRS records. Employers, banks, and other entities submit W-2s and 1099s directly to the IRS, and discrepancies can trigger an automatic notice. Those with multiple 1099 forms from brokerage accounts or gig economy work should carefully reconcile their records before filing.

Verifying Delivery

Confirming receipt of a mailed return helps avoid penalties for late filing. Certified Mail with a return receipt provides tracking and proof of delivery. Private carriers like FedEx and UPS also offer tracking, but taxpayers must use IRS-designated street addresses instead of P.O. boxes.

Keeping a copy of the return and proof of mailing is important in case of disputes. Taxpayers expecting a refund can check the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, while those without refunds can call the IRS for confirmation of processing.