Your mailing address is the only way the IRS has to get in contact with you, so it’s always good practice to keep it up-to-date and consistent in all of your communications with them.
Does the IRS Allow a P.O. Box Address on a tax return, W-9, or W-4?
Yes, the IRS will allow a P.O. box address on your tax return only if your post office doesn’t deliver mail to your home. The W-9 and W-4 instructions do not specifically state if a P.O. box is allowed, however, the 1040 (tax return) instructions state that a P.O. box is allowed if mail is not delivered to your home address.
If you are moving soon and unsure of your next location, a P.O. box may be the best option for you. Ultimately the IRS wants to ensure you’re receiving their communications and that you respond promptly to any inquiries they send.
If mail theft is a serious concern where you live, I always recommend the safest and most secure option to ensure you receive any communications from the IRS. In this case, a P.O. box may be the best option to ensure you receive any letters or refund checks coming your way.
If you need to change your mailing address with the IRS, there are three convenient ways to change the address on file.
It’s important to note that if you update your address by mail it can take the IRS several weeks to get your file updated, so make sure you have mail forwarding set up with your post office.
