Government
January 16, 2025
3 min read

How to Send a Letter to the IRS (Without Going to the Post Office)

Dreading the post office trip? Learn how to securely mail your IRS documents, tax returns, and appeals from your computer or phone using Papermail.

TL;DR

  • The IRS still requires physical mail for many forms, especially appeals and amendments.
  • You don't need a printer or stamps to send them.
  • Papermail lets you upload your PDF, adds postage, and mails it for you.
  • Use Certified Mail for proof of delivery—essential for tax disputes.

Dealing with the IRS is stressful enough without the added hassle of printing forms, finding envelopes, and standing in line at the post office. Yet, despite living in a digital age, the Internal Revenue Service often requires physical "wet ink" on paper for critical documents like amended returns (1040-X), penalty abatements, and audit responses.

This guide will show you exactly how to bypass the post office and send your IRS documents online, securely and correctly.

When Does the IRS Require Physical Mail?

While e-filing is standard for annual returns, physical mail is often mandatory for:

  • Amended Returns: Most amended returns cannot be e-filed.
  • responses to Notices: If you receive a CP2000 or similar notice, the response often must be mailed.
  • Power of Attorney (Form 2848): Often mailed or faxed.
  • Penalty Appeals: Requesting forgiveness for late fees usually requires a written letter.
  • Identity Theft Affidavits (Form 14039): Must be mailed with proof of ID.

The Old Way vs. The Papermail Way

The Old Way:

  1. Download the form.
  2. Print it (hope you have ink).
  3. Sign it.
  4. Find an envelope and buy stamps.
  5. Drive to the post office if you need Certified Mail tracking.
  6. Wait in line.

The Papermail Way:

  1. Upload your signed PDF to Papermail.
  2. Enter the IRS address (we verify it).
  3. Select Certified Mail for tracking.
  4. Click Send.

We print your documents on premium paper, insert them into secure envelopes, apply postage, and hand them directly to USPS.

Why You Should Always Use Certified Mail for the IRS

The IRS is notorious for "losing" mail or processing it months late. If they claim they never received your response, you could face additional penalties and interest.

Certified Mail provides legal proof that you sent the document and that the IRS received it. It gives you a tracking number and a delivery confirmation.

Pro Tip: When you send via Papermail, select the "Certified Mail" option at checkout. We handle the green forms and tracking numbers automatically.

Step-by-Step: Sending IRS Forms Online

  1. Prepare Your Document: Fill out your IRS form and save it as a PDF. Ensure you have signed it digitally or scanned a signed copy.
  2. Go to Papermail: Log in to your Papermail Dashboard.
  3. Start a New Letter: Click "New Letter" and select "Upload PDF."
  4. Enter the IRS Address: Be sure to use the specific address found on your IRS notice or form instructions. Note: IRS addresses often differ based on the form type and your state.
  5. Choose Delivery: Select Certified Mail.
  6. Send: We take care of the rest.

Start Sending Today

Don't let a lack of printer ink delay your tax resolution. Use technology to bridge the gap.

Send Your IRS Letter Now →


AI

Authored by: The Papermail Team & Papermail AI

Content generated with AI assistance and reviewed by our product experts for accuracy.