How to Mail Your Tax Return with USPS?

Filing your taxes is a crucial task that comes around every year (2023-24) . If you’re mailing your tax return, it’s important to ensure it gets to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) safely and on time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to mail your tax return with the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Step 1: Prepare Your Tax Return

Before you can mail your tax return, you need to prepare it. This involves filling out the necessary forms, including Form 1040, and attaching any necessary documents, such as W-2 or 1099 forms. Make sure all the information is correct and complete.

Step 2: Address the Envelope

Write both the destination and return addresses clearly on the envelope. You can find the correct IRS address for your state on the IRS website. Make sure to use the correct address that corresponds to your situation (e.g., whether you’re including a payment or not).

Step 3: Apply Correct Postage

Weigh your envelope using a kitchen scale or postage scale and apply the right amount of postage. Most tax returns are several pages long and weigh more than 1 oz. Tax returns sent without enough postage will be returned.

Step 4: Mail Your Return

You can mail your return in a USPS blue collection box or at a Postal location that has a pickup time before the deadline. Some Post Office locations offer extended hours and late postmarking for tax filers.

Step 5: Get Proof of Mailing

For added peace of mind, you can buy a Certificate of Mailing at the Post Office. This is a proof of mailing receipt that proves you mailed your tax return on a certain date. If your return is delayed or lost, a Certificate of Mailing can provide proof that you mailed it.

Step 6: Track Your Return

When you use a USPS service with tracking, your tracking number will provide updates as your item travels to its destination, including the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery.

Important Tips

• The IRS considers a tax return filed on time if it is addressed correctly, has enough postage, and is postmarked by the due date.
• If your tax return is postmarked by the filing date deadline, the IRS considers it on time.
• Keep your receipt in a safe place. The Postal Service does not keep copies of receipts.

Remember, mailing your tax return with USPS is a secure and reliable way to ensure it gets to the IRS. However, it’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your tax return and any related documents for your records. Happy filing!