File Paper Return. Pay Online. What's the Process?

Your question was posted from desktop Home and Business.  When you are in the FILE section you can make the choice to file by mail instead of e-filing.  The pages you need to mail will print out.    Print, sign and date your returns in ink, and mail them to the IRS and state.   If the return is a joint return, both spouses must sign.

 

 

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

 

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

 

Follow these steps:

1. When you get through the form preparation, the final step is the FILE tab. 
2. You will have the option to e-file or file by mail. 
3. Select that you want to file by mail. 
4. Pay for the service. 
5. Review your return. 
6. Print
7. Sign and date your 1040
8. Put your form in sequence order - 1040 is on top, Sch 1 shows sequence 01 so if you have it, it would go under the 1040. Keep stacking the forms in sequence order so the last one is on the bottom.
9. Attach your forms to the 1040 where marked.
10. Attach any extra statements or documents below the return.
11. Address the envelope, see Where to file addresses
12. Mail the return with tracking - no signature required.

There are quite a few reasons for mailing the return.

Thanks.  Very helpful.  Given I plan to make my amount-due payment using my irs.gov online account, what (if any) paperwork do I need to include (or not include) with my hardcopy snail-mailed Federal return?

Include copies of W-2's and any 1099's that show tax withheld.