You can print out your tax return in your tax software for mailing. Most tax software provide you instructions on where you file. Tax software will also print out a payment voucher (1040-V) if you need to pay with your return.
If you don’t use tax software and need to get tax forms, you can get them from the IRS. You can access your federal tax return forms with instructions through IRS.gov to fill out electronically. You can also order your tax forms to be delivered through the mail. You can even order them over the phone by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM.
In 2024, approximately 6% of taxpayers file their tax returns through the mail, as the internet has allowed for a more efficient and reliable source to complete them electronically.
If you file by mail make sure you:
- Include all forms and information statements (including all W-2s and other information statements that show your federal tax withholding paid)
- Use the correct mail address. The IRS publishes the addresses online. Where you mail your return will depend on whether you are sending a payment or not: State by State Table with Addresses
- Use an accepted mail carrier so that you have receipt that the IRS has received your return. This is especially important if you owe a balance with your return and do not pay it. Late filed returns with a remaining unpaid balance incur a 5% per month, up to 25%, failure to file penalty. The IRS accepts mail from: USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL Express. Send your return through certified mail in order to be able to track shipping and delivery to the IRS.
- Send your return by the due date. Be sure to postmark your federal tax by the due date of the return: April 15th , June 15th (if a military member overseas), or October 15th (if filed a proper extension request by April 15th of tax year.
It will take between 6-8 weeks (about 2 months) for the IRS to process your mail-in return. Your return will not be considered late if you file/mail the return by the due date. However, you will experience a delay in receiving any federal tax refunds due to the processing time of mail-in returns.
