Which Pages of a Tax Return Should You Print to Send to the IRS?

Filing a paper tax return requires careful attention to detail. Sending unnecessary pages can slow processing, while omitting required forms may lead to delays or IRS inquiries.

To ensure your submission is complete, include the correct federal forms, schedules, and attachments. Understanding these requirements helps avoid mistakes and ensures efficient processing.

Federal Forms to Include

The most important document to print and send is Form 1040, the foundation of your tax return. Every filer must include all pages of this form, even if some sections are blank. If using Form 1040-SR, designed for taxpayers aged 65 and older, the same rules apply.

Include any additional forms that impact your tax liability. For example, if claiming the Child Tax Credit, attach Form 8812. If you owe self-employment tax, include Schedule SE. Those with capital gains or losses must submit Form 8949 along with Schedule D.

If mailing a check for taxes owed, include Form 1040-V, the payment voucher. To request a payment plan, attach Form 9465.

Necessary Schedules

Schedules provide details that support figures on Form 1040. The specific ones required depend on your income, deductions, and credits.

If you have income beyond wages, such as rental earnings or business profits, include Schedule 1. This form also covers adjustments like student loan interest deductions and educator expenses.

Taxpayers who itemize deductions must attach Schedule A, which details mortgage interest, medical costs exceeding the adjusted gross income (AGI) threshold, and state and local taxes. Itemizing is only beneficial if total deductions exceed the standard deduction—$14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly in 2024.

Self-employed individuals must submit Schedule C, which details business income and expenses. Farmers reporting agricultural income must include Schedule F.

Investors with more than $1,500 in interest or dividends must attach Schedule B, which lists financial institutions that issued payments and distinguishes between taxable and tax-exempt interest. Those with foreign financial accounts exceeding $10,000 at any point during the year must complete Part III of Schedule B and separately file FinCEN Form 114.

Attachments and Supporting Statements

Certain documents must be included to verify reported amounts and prevent IRS scrutiny. Attach W-2 forms to the front of Form 1040 to confirm wages and withholdings. If taxes were withheld from pension distributions or unemployment benefits, include copies of Form 1099-R or Form 1099-G.

If claiming tax credits that require documentation, attach the necessary forms. For example, taxpayers claiming the American Opportunity Credit for education expenses should include Form 1098-T. Those claiming the Premium Tax Credit must attach Form 1095-A. Missing these forms can result in denied credits and adjustments to your return.

For large deductions or expenses, additional explanations may be required. Charitable contributions over $250 require a written acknowledgment from the organization. Non-cash donations exceeding $500 must be reported on Form 8283. If claiming depreciation on business or rental property, attach Form 4562.

Mailing Requirements

The IRS has specific mailing addresses based on your state, whether a payment is enclosed, and the type of return being filed. These addresses change annually, so check the instructions for Form 1040 or the IRS website to ensure accuracy. Using an outdated address can delay processing.

Proper assembly of documents helps ensure smooth processing. Stack forms in order, with Form 1040 on top, followed by additional forms in numerical order. Attach W-2s and 1099s to the front using a paperclip instead of staples, as staples can interfere with scanning. If filing jointly, both taxpayers must sign and date the return—missing signatures can invalidate the submission.