Change of Address


Does the IRS need to know where you are?

Going off to college? Or moving to your own apartment? With all the planning that goes into a move, don't forget to let the IRS know where to find you. Come tax time, you want to be sure they have your correct mailing address - especially if you are due a refund. If you received pre-printed address labels with a packet from the IRS, you may legibly correct the label with your new address information. Or, instead of using the labels, you may write your new address in the proper spaces on the IRS forms. They will update their files with your new address.

An alternative method to update your address is to send the following information to an IRS service center:

  1. Your full name
  2. Your old and new addresses
  3. Your social security number or employer identification number
  4. Your signature

You may use IRS Form 8822, Change of Address, for this purpose. All service center addresses are listed in the package of IRS tax forms you receive. On a joint return, all the above information must be provided for both spouses. Make sure the post office that serviced your former address has your new address as well. Ask if they will forward your refund - not all post offices will forward government checks. In certain cases you may be able to deduct some of your moving expenses.