The Best Practices for Mailing Your Tax Return to the IRS

When filing your tax return by mail to the IRS, certain presentation methods are preferred over others to ensure a smooth processing. The IRS specifically recommends against using staples or paper clips to secure your documents. Instead, a simple paperclip is the recommended method. This approach helps keep your submission organized and simplifies the processing for the IRS.

Why Not Staples or Paper Clips?

The recommended practice by the IRS is to avoid using staples or paper clips. This includes any checks attached to your submission. If you use staples or paper clips, your returns may become misaligned or lose their pages, complicating the processing. The IRS asks for a clean and neat presentation to minimize delays.

Attaching Forms Correctly

When you are attaching forms, ensure that each social security number and tax year is clearly marked. For checks, the proper legal name, social security number, and the period to which the payment applies must be included. It is a good practice to make photocopies of everything for your records.

Envelope and Mailing Instructions

For maximum efficiency, each return should be mailed in a separate envelope. Your accountant or tax preparer may recommend using Certified Mail with a return receipt requested. If you have multiple returns, it is advisable to send each one in a separate envelope. Additionally, use a green postcard for each submission to track your mails.

Often, combining multiple returns in one envelope can lead to complications. The IRS instructions clearly state that each responsive item should be in a separate envelope to avoid any possibility of pages sticking together and getting lost in the process.

Electronic Filing vs. Mailed Filing

While the IRS does accept mailed tax returns, electronic filing is highly recommended. Electronic filing is faster and more reliable, ensuring that your refund checks are processed more quickly. Filing electronically can get your refund back in days, which is a significant advantage over waiting months for a paper check.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Based on experience, many taxpayers have faced delays when using staples or paper clips in their mail submissions. For instance, using a small pin or staple near the IRS logo on the Form 1040 is a common practice but goes against the IRS guidelines. It is crucial to follow the instructions exactly to avoid any potential delays.

For online submissions, several reliable services are available, including the official IRS website, which offers a user-friendly online filing process. It is important to note that while online filing is encouraged, if you prefer to mail, following the guidelines can significantly improve your chances of a smooth processing experience.

Conclusion

When mailing your tax return to the IRS, follow the recommended practices to ensure your return is processed efficiently and quickly. Use a paperclip instead of staples or paper clips. Ensure all necessary information is clearly marked and each return is in a separate envelope, preferably sent via Certified Mail with a return receipt requested. This approach will help avoid delays and ensure a timely refund.