Knowing how to change address on federal tax ID is one of those adulting tasks that feels more complicated than it actually is. Whether you’ve moved across town or across the country, updating your address with the IRS ensures your tax documents, refunds, and correspondence reach you without delays. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do.
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Why Update Your Address Matters
The IRS doesn’t magically know you’ve moved. If you don’t update your address, tax refunds get mailed to your old place, notices about audits or missing documents go astray, and you might miss critical deadlines. I’ve seen clients stress unnecessarily because they never received a letter from the IRS—only to discover it was sitting in a mailbox three states away.
Beyond the practical headaches, an outdated address can trigger compliance issues. The IRS may assume you’re avoiding contact, which could lead to penalties or additional scrutiny. Think of it as keeping your phone number current with your bank—it’s basic maintenance that prevents bigger problems down the road.
Understanding Your Tax ID Types
Before you update anything, know what you’re updating. The IRS uses different identifiers depending on your situation:
- Social Security Number (SSN): Used for individual taxpayers and sole proprietors.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN): Used for businesses, partnerships, S-corps, and LLCs. If you’re running a business, this is what needs updating.
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): For non-citizens or those without an SSN.
The process differs slightly depending on which ID you’re updating. For most individuals, it’s straightforward. For business owners, especially those with an S-corp or other business entity, the steps are a bit more involved.
Form 8822: Your Primary Tool
The IRS Form 8822 (or 8822-B for businesses) is the official document for notifying the IRS of an address change. It’s free, straightforward, and available on IRS.gov.
For individuals: Use Form 8822. You’ll need:
- Your name and SSN
- Old address
- New address
- Your signature and date
For businesses: Use Form 8822-B. You’ll also need:
Mail the form to the IRS address listed on the form itself—it varies by state. Processing typically takes 30-60 days, though it can be faster if you’re proactive.
Business Address Changes: More Than Just Form 8822
If you own a business, changing your address on your federal tax ID involves more than just notifying the IRS. You’ll also need to update:
- State tax agencies: Most states require separate notification for sales tax, employment tax, and income tax registrations.
- Federal agencies: If you have federal unemployment tax obligations, notify the Department of Labor.
- Payroll processors: Update your records with whoever handles your payroll.
- Lenders and vendors: Banks and suppliers need your new address for statements and invoices.
This is where many business owners stumble. They update the IRS but forget about state agencies, leading to mismatched records and potential compliance headaches. Consider creating a checklist of every agency and vendor that has your business address on file.
Online Update Methods Available Now
The IRS has made this easier in recent years. If you have a password-protected account on IRS.gov, you can update your address directly through:
- IRS Online Account: Log in at IRS.gov/payments, select “Account,” and update your address. This works for individual taxpayers.
- Business Online Services: If you have an EIN, you can use EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) to update business address information.
- IRS2Go App: The official IRS mobile app allows you to check your tax account and update certain information on the go.
Online updates are faster than mailing forms—often processed within 2-3 weeks. However, if you’re updating an address for a business entity, you may still need to mail Form 8822-B to ensure all IRS systems are synchronized.
Processing Timeline and Confirmation
Here’s what to expect after you submit your address change:
- Mail submission: 30-60 days processing time. The IRS will send a confirmation letter to your new address.
- Online submission: 2-3 weeks. You’ll see confirmation immediately in your account.
- Phone submission: You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (for businesses), though expect hold times.
Don’t assume your address is updated just because you’ve submitted the form. Keep a copy for your records and watch for confirmation mail. If you don’t receive confirmation within 60 days, follow up with the IRS.
Common Mistakes That Delay Updates
I’ve seen these errors trip up otherwise organized people:
- Incomplete information: Missing your signature, SSN, or EIN means the form gets rejected.
- Wrong IRS address: Each state has a different IRS processing center. Mailing to the wrong address adds weeks to processing.
- Not updating all systems: Business owners update federal records but forget state agencies, creating a patchwork of outdated information.
- Updating during tax season: January through April, the IRS is swamped. Submit your change in the off-season if possible.
- Assuming verbal notification works: Calling the IRS and telling them your new address doesn’t officially update your file. You need written documentation.
The good news? These are all preventable. A few minutes of attention now saves headaches later.
Your Address Change Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure nothing falls through the cracks:
- ☐ Determine your tax ID type (SSN, EIN, or ITIN)
- ☐ Download the correct IRS form (8822 or 8822-B)
- ☐ Complete the form with accurate old and new addresses
- ☐ Sign and date the form
- ☐ Make a copy for your records
- ☐ Mail to the correct IRS address for your state
- ☐ If you’re a business owner, consult a tax professional about state agency notifications
- ☐ Update your payroll processor or accountant
- ☐ Watch for IRS confirmation mail at your new address
- ☐ If you don’t receive confirmation within 60 days, contact the IRS
For self-employed individuals or those with complex tax situations, you might also want to review your Schedule 1 tax form to ensure your address is consistent across all filings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online for all tax situations?
Mostly. Individual taxpayers can update through their IRS online account. Business owners with an EIN should mail Form 8822-B to ensure all IRS databases are updated, though some information can be changed through Business Online Services. When in doubt, mail the official form.
What if I’m moving internationally?
The IRS accepts foreign addresses. On Form 8822, write out the full address in the country you’re moving to. You may also need to file Form 8288-B if you’re a non-resident alien with U.S. tax obligations. Consider working with a tax professional who handles international returns.
How long does it take to receive my tax refund at my new address?
If you’ve updated your address before filing your tax return, the IRS will mail your refund to the new address. If you’ve already filed with the old address, the refund goes there first. You can then forward it or contact the IRS to request a reissue. Proactive address updates prevent this problem.
Do I need to notify the IRS if I’m moving temporarily?
If it’s a few months, you could use a mail forwarding service with USPS. For longer moves (6+ months), update your address officially. The IRS is particular about having your current address on file.
What happens if the IRS sends mail to my old address?
If you’ve officially updated your address but receive mail at your old place, it may be from before the update was processed. If it continues after 60 days, contact the IRS. If mail arrives at your old address from a former tenant, mark it “Return to Sender” and drop it back in the mail.
Can my accountant or tax preparer update my address for me?
Some tax professionals can file Form 8822 on your behalf if you authorize them. However, you’re ultimately responsible for ensuring the update is made. Verify with your accountant that they’ve submitted the form and keep a copy yourself.
Is there a fee to change my address with the IRS?
No. The IRS charges nothing for address changes. Be wary of services that charge a fee—you don’t need them.
Final Thoughts
Changing your address on your federal tax ID isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. A few minutes now—filling out a form, mailing it to the right place, and watching for confirmation—prevents months of frustration later. Whether you’re an individual with a simple SSN or a business owner managing an EIN, the process is manageable if you follow the steps outlined here.
The key is being proactive. Don’t wait until you’re missing tax documents or a refund check. Update your address as soon as you know you’re moving, keep copies of everything you submit, and follow up if you don’t receive confirmation within 60 days. Your future self will thank you for staying organized now.
