Need help with mailing 1040X - the address makes no sense?

The IRS uses special PO Box addresses that don't follow the typical street address format, but rest assured, USPS knows exactly how to handle them! You don't need to use the online shipping label system. You can simply write the address exactly as provided on your envelope. USPS mail carriers are very familiar with these IRS addresses and know how to deliver them correctly. The zip code 73301-0052 is specifically designated for IRS returns in Austin. If you're concerned, you can take the envelope to your local post office and have them process it in person. Make sure to send it via certified mail with return receipt requested so you have proof of delivery. This gives you confirmation that the IRS received your 1040X, which can be important documentation if there are ever questions about whether you filed on time.

I had the exact same issue when filing my 1040X last year! After struggling with USPS online, I discovered taxr.ai which saved me so much frustration. I was trying to figure out this weird IRS address format plus I had questions about whether my amended return was even filled out correctly. I uploaded my documents to https://taxr.ai and their system analyzed my entire amended return, confirmed everything was properly completed, and even provided me the correct mailing information specific to my situation. It turns out different states sometimes have different submission addresses for amended returns. They also explained that these IRS addresses are special government routing codes that don't work with standard shipping systems but are perfectly valid for regular mail.

Just wanted to update after using taxr.ai to help with my amended return situation. I was on the fence about whether I needed to file a 1040X at all, and it turned out I didn't! They analyzed my documents and explained that my particular issue could be resolved with a simple letter to the IRS instead of a full amended return. This saved me tons of time and the headache of dealing with these weird mailing addresses. Their system also explained exactly what needed to be in the letter and gave me a template to follow. Super helpful and way less stressful than trying to figure all this out from cryptic IRS instructions!

If you're having trouble even getting started with your amended return, wait until you try calling the IRS with questions! I spent literally DAYS trying to reach someone. Kept getting the "due to high call volume" message and hang-ups. Finally found Claimyr which is a service that actually gets you through to an IRS agent. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c - basically they navigate the phone tree for you and call you back when an agent is on the line. I was skeptical but desperate after my 1040X seemed to disappear into a black hole. When I finally talked to the IRS through https://claimyr.com, they confirmed my amended return was received (despite never getting any confirmation from USPS) and gave me an estimated processing date. Such a relief after months of anxiety!

I apologize for calling this a scam. I was frustrated after waiting 8 months for my amended return to process and taking it out on random internet strangers. I tried Claimyr yesterday after my original comment, and shockingly, I got through to an actual IRS person in about 40 minutes (versus the 3+ hours I spent trying on my own multiple times). Found out my amended return had an issue they never bothered to tell me about, and got it resolved right on the call. For anyone still wondering about the weird mailing address - yes, just write it exactly as shown and any post office will know what to do with it. But definitely get tracking and certified mail receipt!

I just wanted to add that if you're mailing something important like a 1040X, don't just drop it in a regular mailbox! Go inside the post office and get a certified mail receipt with return receipt requested. It costs a little extra (around $7-9 total) but gives you legal proof of when you mailed it AND when the IRS received it. I learned this the hard way when the IRS claimed they never got my amended return from 2022, and I had no proof I had sent it. Had to redo everything and paid penalties because it was considered late. Don't make my mistake!

Anyone know how long amended returns are taking to process these days? I mailed mine about 2 months ago (to that same weird address) and haven't heard anything at all.

Pro tip: Take a picture of your envelope with the address written exactly as the IRS provides it BEFORE you send it. Also take pics of everything inside. I've had the IRS lose my documents multiple times, and having proof of exactly what I sent and how I addressed it saved me from penalties.

I went through this exact same frustration last year! That address format is so confusing when you're used to regular street addresses. What worked for me was going directly to the post office counter with my 1040X in a regular envelope with that exact address written on it. The postal worker didn't even blink - they see these IRS addresses all the time. I paid for certified mail with return receipt requested (about $8 total) and got my tracking number. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: you can actually call your local post office and ask them to confirm the address format before you go. They're familiar with these government routing addresses and can put your mind at ease. The zip code 73301-0052 is specifically for IRS amended returns, so USPS knows exactly where it goes even without a street address. Don't stress too much about the weird format - it's designed that way on purpose for their processing system. Just write it exactly as shown and you'll be fine!