How to Mail a Paper Return (Paper File)
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You may need to mail a paper return to the IRS or state agency if:

  • You prefer mail over e-file (personal preference)
  • Your e-file was rejected and must be paper-filed to correct the problem*
  • You're filing your return after the October deadline (IRS is no longer accepting e-filed returns)

To print a paper copy of your return:

  1. From within your TaxAct return (Online or Desktop), click Filing. On mobile/smaller devices, click in the upper left-hand corner, then select Filing
  2. On the screen titled Congrats! You're 3 steps away from being done, click the Mail Paper Return link.
  3. The program will proceed with the interview screens for you to enter or review the appropriate information.
  4. You will then be prompted to print the return and its filing instructions (if you are also printing a state return, this will be on a separate screen).

Before mailing the return(s), be sure to read the filing instructions. They will include important information such as where to file, what to attach to the return (i.e. W-2s, 1099s, etc.), refund or balance due, information about estimated tax payments, etc.

Note. File your return, schedules, and other attachments on standard size paper. Cutting the paper may cause problems in processing your return.

*Note. If you are paper-filing your return because you were rejected on the filing due date, you should also include an explanation and a copy of the IRS rejection with your paper return. This return would need to be mailed within 10 days of your rejection and no later than April 25th.


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