Keeping your address up to date with the IRS is crucial to ensuring you don’t miss important notices or tax refunds. But can you change your address online? Unfortunately, the IRS doesn’t offer an online form for address changes. However, there are several methods you can use to update your information, including by mail, phone, or when you file your taxes. 

Whether you're moving to a new home or just want to make sure your tax communications are directed to the right place, it’s essential to notify the IRS in a timely and accurate manner. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about updating your address with the IRS and why it’s so important to keep your information current.

Why Should I Keep My Address Up to Date with the IRS?

Updating your address with the IRS may seem like a small task, but it can have significant consequences if neglected. Here are a few key reasons why you should always keep your address on file current with the IRS:

Receiving Your Tax Refund: If you're one of the many Americans who receive a tax refund, having the IRS send it to the correct address is vital. An incorrect address could delay your refund, causing unnecessary stress and potentially missing out on financial support that’s rightfully yours.

Avoiding Missing Important Notices: The IRS sends various communications, including time-sensitive notices regarding audits, outstanding balances, and other tax-related matters. If your address is outdated, you risk missing critical letters, which could result in penalties, interest charges, or even legal consequences. With an updated address, you can ensure you receive and respond to these communications on time.

Legal Responsibility: The IRS assumes that the address they have on file is accurate. If you fail to update it, any important notices sent to your old address are still considered delivered, even if you never received them. This makes it crucial to take action and avoid potential complications with your taxes.

What You’ll Need to Change Your Address with the IRS

Before notifying the IRS of your address change, it's essential to gather all the necessary information to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here's what you'll need:

Your New Address: This is the most obvious, but also the most important. Ensure that your new address is accurate and complete. It’s always a good idea to double-check the details to avoid any confusion or errors that might slow down the process.

Your Old Address: You’ll also need to provide your old address. This helps the IRS verify that you are indeed changing the correct address in their records.

Personal Information: To verify your identity, you’ll need to provide some key details, including:

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Spouse’s Information (If Applicable): If you file a joint tax return, both you and your spouse will need to update your addresses. Make sure to have your spouse’s full name, SSN, and any other relevant information on hand.

Once you have all the necessary details, you can proceed with one of the methods for updating your address with the IRS.

Methods to Change Your Address with the IRS

There are several ways to notify the IRS of your address change. While there isn’t an online system for this, you can choose from various methods to update your records:

1. IRS Form 8822

The most common way to change your address with the IRS is by filling out Form 8822. This simple one-page form asks for your old and new address, along with basic personal information such as your name and Social Security number (SSN).

  • Important Note: Be careful not to confuse this form with Form 8822-B, which is used for business address changes. If you are self-employed or operate a business, you’ll need to use the 8822-B form. Always ensure that you're using the correct, up-to-date form directly from the IRS website.

2. Updating Your Address with Your Tax Return

You can also update your address when you file your annual tax return. Simply use your new address on the return and the IRS will update your records accordingly. However, this method only works if you’re filing during tax season. If your move happens outside of tax season, it’s better to update your address through other methods.

3. Written Statement

If you prefer to send a written request, you can submit a signed statement to the IRS. Your statement should include:

  • Your full name
  • Your old and new addresses
  • Your SSN, ITIN, or EIN
  • A signature (and optional contact number)

Once you’ve written your statement, mail it to the address where you filed your last return. This method is a bit slower but can be a good option for those who prefer not to deal with forms.

4. Oral Notification (By Phone or In-Person)

Another option is to contact the IRS directly by phone or in person. You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. local time to update your address. When calling, you’ll need to verify your identity, so be ready to provide your personal details, including your old and new addresses.

Alternatively, you can make an appointment to visit a local IRS office and update your address in person. If you filed a joint tax return, both you and your spouse will need to provide the necessary details. This method can be helpful for those who prefer face-to-face interaction.

Can I Change My Address Online?

While many of us would love the convenience of changing our address with the IRS online, unfortunately, the IRS doesn’t offer an online form for address changes. However, you can initiate the process in other ways, such as by phone, in person, or when filing your taxes. It may not be as convenient as clicking a button online, but these methods are secure and efficient.

If you’re looking for a streamlined experience, consider using third-party services like GOV+. These services simplify the process and ensure your information is submitted accurately and promptly, taking the hassle out of dealing with government forms.

How Long Does It Take to Process My Change of Address?

Once you’ve submitted your address change request, it typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to process the update. This timeframe can vary depending on the volume of requests and the method you used to submit the change.

While the USPS can update your address in the IRS records through their National Change of Address (NCOA) system, it’s important to note that not all government-related mail, such as tax refunds or checks, will be forwarded. Therefore, even if you've notified the USPS of your new address, you should still take the extra step to notify the IRS directly to avoid missing important documents.

If your address change relates to an employment tax return, the IRS will send confirmation notices (Notices 148A and 148B) to both your old and new addresses, confirming the change has been made.

Conclusion

Keeping your address updated with the IRS is an essential task that ensures you don’t miss important communications and that your tax refund gets to the right place. While you can’t change your address with the IRS online, there are various methods available, including submitting forms, updating your tax return, or calling or visiting the IRS in person.

No matter how you choose to update your address, be sure to gather all the necessary information and act promptly. And remember, if you want to avoid the hassle of paperwork, you can always use services like GOV+ to simplify the process.

By staying proactive and keeping your records up to date, you can ensure a smoother experience with the IRS and avoid any unnecessary complications down the road.

FAQs

Q 1: Can I change my address with the IRS by phone? 

Ans: Yes, you can change your address by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Be prepared to verify your identity by providing your personal information, including your old and new address.

Q 2: How do I know if my address change has been processed? 

Ans: After you submit your address change, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for the IRS to update their records. You may receive confirmation notices, or you can monitor your IRS correspondence to confirm the change has been made.

Q 3: What happens if I don’t update my address with the IRS? 

Ans: If you fail to update your address, you risk missing important IRS communications, including notices about audits, balances, or refunds. This can lead to penalties, fees, or delays in receiving your tax refund.