Where to Mail Your Virginia State Tax Return

Filing your Virginia state tax return correctly means ensuring it reaches the right destination. Sending it to the wrong address can cause processing delays, penalties, or even a lost refund.

Identifying the Correct Department

The Virginia Department of Taxation processes state tax returns, but the correct mailing address depends on the type of return. Returns requesting refunds, those with payments, and those requiring additional documentation may be processed at different locations. Sending your return to the wrong department can delay refunds or misapply payments.

Returns needing manual review, such as amended filings or those claiming special tax credits, may have separate submission requirements. If additional forms like Schedule OSC for out-of-state tax credits are included, verify whether they require a different address.

Virginia also differentiates between individual and business tax filings. Business tax returns, including corporate income and sales tax, often have separate mailing addresses from personal income tax filings.

Address for Returns Expecting a Refund

If you are expecting a refund, use the designated mailing address to prevent delays:

Virginia Department of Taxation
P.O. Box 1498
Richmond, VA 23218-1498

Ensure all required forms and schedules are attached. Missing signatures or omitted documents can result in delays or rejection. If claiming credits like the Virginia Earned Income Credit (EIC) or the Credit for Low-Income Individuals, include supporting documentation, as these claims often require verification.

Address for Returns with Payments

If your return includes a payment, send it to:

Virginia Department of Taxation
P.O. Box 760
Richmond, VA 23218-0760

Include your Social Security number and tax year on the check or money order to ensure proper crediting. Missing this information can lead to misapplied payments and delays. Virginia law imposes a late payment penalty of 6% per month, up to 30%, if payments are not received on time. Interest accrues at the federal underpayment rate plus 2%.

Postage and Mailing Options

Selecting the right mailing method ensures timely delivery. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) offers First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Certified Mail. First-Class Mail is cost-effective, while Certified Mail with a return receipt provides proof of submission.

Private carriers like UPS and FedEx can be used, but P.O. Boxes may not accept these shipments. If using a private carrier, verify the correct mailing address for courier deliveries. Virginia follows the IRS’s “timely mailed, timely filed” rule, meaning as long as the return is postmarked by the due date, it is considered on time.

Tracking and Confirmation

Confirming receipt of your tax return can prevent issues with lost or delayed filings.

The Virginia Department of Taxation offers an online tool, “Where’s My Refund?” for taxpayers expecting refunds. By entering a Social Security number and refund amount, filers can track their return status. Refunds for paper returns typically take up to four weeks, though manual review may extend processing times.

For returns with payments, check your bank statement for the check’s clearance or log into your Virginia Tax online account to confirm processing.

Using USPS Certified Mail or a private carrier with delivery confirmation provides proof of submission. If a return is lost in transit, taxpayers may need to submit a duplicate with proof of original mailing, such as a certified mail receipt. Filing early reduces last-minute delays, and keeping copies of all documents ensures quick resolution of any discrepancies.