How to Attach Tax Return Forms
Although not everyone knows it, there is a specific way to send tax forms back to the IRS. Because you do not want an IRS agent to be annoyed when they go over your return, it's best that you follow these simple instructions.
- Make sure that your forms are filled out completely and properly. When you are finished, gather all of your forms and suppoorting documents together.
- Put all of the pages of your 1040 forms together. Then, gather your W-2 forms. Place the W-2s on top of the 1040 form, stapling them neatly to the top, left hand corner of the page.
- Place all accompanying forms in order behind the forms you have just stapled. You can do this by checking the forms for their "Attachment Sequence Number". Each form will have this number on the top, right corner of the page. Place the forms in sequence from smallest to largest. Do not staple these forms yet.
- Gather all of your supporting documents that you will need to send to the IRS. These may be varying sizes, but try to gather them so that they will staple evenly. Once you have done this, staple your forms and supporting documents to the documents you have already stapled.
- If you pay your taxes by check, be sure that you do not staple your check to the forms. Keep it loose inside the envelope.
- Place all of your forms in a ten by twelve inch envelope and send your forms by certified mail to the proper Taxpayer Assistance Center.