Update Your Address Through IRS Online Services

You can change your address with the IRS using the IRS online account if you have one set up, or by mailing Form 8822 directly to the IRS. The online method is faster — your address updates within a few days instead of weeks — but it only works if you have already created an IRS account and linked it to your tax records. If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one in about 10 minutes using your Social Security number, filing status, and a recent tax return.

The IRS does not process address changes through its main website or by phone. You must use either the online account portal or mail a paper form. Email and fax are not accepted for address changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Create an IRS online account at IRS.gov using your Social Security number and a recent tax return if you do not already have one.
  • Once logged in, go to the "Profile" section and select "Address" to update your mailing address in minutes.
  • If you do not want to create an online account, mail Form 8822 to the IRS address listed on the form itself.
  • Address changes through the online account take effect within a few days; mailed forms take four to six weeks.
  • Update your address before filing your next tax return to avoid mail delays and missed correspondence about your account.

Creating an IRS Online Account

Before you can change your address online, you need an IRS online account (sometimes called an IRS account or tax account). Go to IRS.gov and look for the "Sign in" button in the upper right corner. Select "Create an account" if you do not see an existing account option.

You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and a copy of a recent tax return or other IRS document. The IRS will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your tax history or by using a third-party identity verification service. This process takes about 10 minutes. Once your account is created and verified, you can log in and make changes to your address.

Updating Your Address in Your Online Account

After you log into your IRS account, look for a section labeled "Profile," "Account," or "Settings" — the exact name varies depending on which IRS portal you are using. Click on "Address" or "Mailing Address" within that section.

Enter your new address exactly as you want mail to arrive. Use your full street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Do not use abbreviations for street types (write "Street" instead of "St.") unless the post office in your area requires them. If you are moving to a P.O. box, enter the P.O. box number as your street address. After you enter the new address, click "Save" or "Submit." The IRS will send you a confirmation message on screen. Your address change takes effect within a few days.

Mailing Form 8822 if You Do Not Have an Online Account

Form 8822 is the official IRS form for changing your address by mail. You can read it from IRS.gov by searching "Form 8822" or request a copy by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Fill in your name, old address, new address, and Social Security number on the form. Sign and date it.

Mail the completed form to the IRS address printed on the form itself — this address changes depending on which state you live in. Do not mail it to the main IRS office; use the address on Form 8822. Include your old address on the envelope so the post office can forward it if needed. The IRS typically processes mailed address changes within four to six weeks. Keep a copy for your records.

What Happens After You Change Your Address

Once the IRS processes your address change, all future mail from the IRS will go to your new address. This includes tax notices, refund information, and correspondence about your account. If you are expecting a refund or a notice before your address change takes effect, it may arrive at your old address. Contact the IRS if you do not receive expected mail within the normal timeframe.

If you filed a joint return with a spouse, changing your address in your account changes it for both of you. If you need separate addresses, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 to request a split.

Updating Your Address Before Filing Taxes

If you are moving before tax season, update your address with the IRS before you file your next return. When you file, use your new address on the tax return itself. If your return shows a different address than what the IRS has on file, the IRS will update its records to match your return, but this can cause delays in processing and refunds.

If you have already filed a return with your old address and then moved, update your address with the IRS right away. This prevents the IRS from mailing your refund or important notices to an address where you no longer receive mail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume your address change with the post office (a mail forwarding order) automatically updates your IRS records. The post office and the IRS are separate systems. You must notify the IRS directly. Similarly, updating your address with your employer or bank does not change your IRS address.

Do not use abbreviations or non-standard formats for your address. Write out "Street," "Avenue," and "Road" in full. Use the correct ZIP code for your new location. If you enter an address the post office cannot read, mail may be returned to the IRS and delayed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the IRS to process an address change?

Online account changes take effect within a few days. Mailed Form 8822 takes four to six weeks. During busy tax season (January through April), processing may take longer.

Can I change my address by phone?

No. The IRS does not process address changes over the phone. You must use your online account or mail Form 8822. If you call the IRS for other reasons, you can ask them to note that you are moving, but this is not an official address change.

What if I moved but do not know my new ZIP code?

Use the USPS ZIP code lookup tool at USPS.com. Enter your street address and city to find the correct ZIP code. Using the wrong ZIP code can delay mail delivery and cause your address change to be rejected.

Do I need to update my address if I am moving temporarily?

If you are moving for more than a few months, update your address with the IRS. If you are moving for less than a few months, you can set up mail forwarding with the post office instead and leave your IRS address unchanged.

What if the IRS mailed something to my old address after I moved?

Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and tell them your old and new addresses. They can resend documents or tell you what was mailed. If the post office forwarded mail to your new address, you should receive it. If not, ask the IRS to reissue the document.