According to the latest IRS data, the average refund is $3,804, a 10% increase from the same week last year.
And most taxpayers e-file (41,377,000 e-filers to date). It seems like everything is online these days—even the Internal Revenue Service, but if you’re a hoodlum and still want to file a paper return, you can…for now. Note that filing by mail (not electronically) may delay your return.
Here’s how to file a paper return, how to check the status of your return, and how to expedite your return.
Read more: Your tax return could be bigger this year. Here’s why.
The IRS is trying to reduce the use of paper and will eventually go paperless. They are well on their way, as last year, more than 93% of all returns were filed electronically. But you still have the option of submitting a paper return by mail. Here’s how:
You can download any form from the IRS website and even request paper forms. Most people who need a paper return:
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Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return)
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Any additional schedules (Schedule 1, Schedule A, Schedule C, etc., depending on your situation)
If you are worried about the complexity of the standard Form 1040, there is a Form 1040-SR for seniors, age 65 and older. It’s an easy-to-read format with large print, minimal shading, and simple features.
When preparing a paper return, you will need to do the following:
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Enter your name, Social Security number, and address as it appears on your Social Security card.
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Report all income, deductions, and credits.
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Attach the necessary schedules if your tax situation requires them. (The IRS instructions on Form 1040 list which schedules to include.)
Generally, you must attach the following to Form 1040:
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A W-2 form from your employer
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Form 1099-R if federal taxes are withheld (reporting IRA withdrawals, 401(k) distributions, pension payments, annuity distributions)
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Other forms, where applicable, show pauses. Here are a few examples:
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Form 1099-G (Government benefits such as unemployment compensation)
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Form 1099-NEC (Non-Employee Compensation)
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Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Payments)
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If you want to file the old-fashioned way, the first step is to make sure you have the proper address, which varies by state or country.
There are IRS offices all over the country, each designed to file returns from specific states. You can find the correct address on the IRS website (where to file a paper tax return with or without payment).
Where you send the form depends on whether you send the payment with the paperwork or not. The IRS recommends using the U.S. Postal Service to send returns with payment, and when you do, make sure you use a service with delivery confirmation and a return receipt.
It is also possible to use some private delivery services, but only those that the IRS offers, and this may delay the processing of your payment.
One reason you may want to reconsider paper returns is the delay in receiving your return.
Most refunds are for people who issue their refund within 21 days. It takes six weeks or longer for someone who mails in a paper return.
If you filed a paper return, and more than six weeks have passed, you can check the status of your return at Where is my return? Tool When checking the status of your return, you will need:
If you don’t have Internet access, you can call the return hotline at 800-829-1954 for a current year return or 866-464-2050 for an amended return.
If there is an error on your return or if the IRS needs more information to process your return, the IRS will notify you by email. Since there is already a delay in processing a paper return, any errors and error resolution will further delay your return.
The fastest way to file your return is to file your tax return electronically and choose direct deposit.
If your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you can file your tax return for free.
If you make more than that, you can file for free using the free filing forms. But be aware that you have to do the calculations yourself, and you may not be able to get a government refund.
Learn more about free filing: How to file your 2025 tax return for free
yes. Most returns are processed within 21 days for those who file by mail, but those filed by mail can take six weeks or more.
If you want a quick refund, e-file your taxes and choose direct deposit.
Your return can be delayed for many reasons, including filing a paper return, claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, filing an amended return, or making a mistake on your return.
If your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you can file your tax return for free.
If you make more than this, you can file for free in the free file filling forms.
