Certified Mail IRS Response
Sending your IRS response via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested provides proof that you responded on time. This proof may be critical if the IRS claims they did not receive your response.
Prepare Your IRS Response
Get a formatted response letter ready for certified mail
Prepare My IRS Notice ResponseWhy Use Certified Mail for IRS Correspondence
- Proof of mailing date (establishes you met the deadline)
- Tracking number to verify delivery
- Return receipt shows who signed for the letter
- Evidence in case the IRS claims non-receipt
- Required for certain time-sensitive notices (e.g., Tax Court petitions)
How to Send Certified Mail to the IRS
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare your response letter and make 2 copies (one for your records, one for mailing)
- Step 2: Place the response and supporting documents in an envelope
- Step 3: Address the envelope using the address on your IRS notice
- Step 4: Go to a USPS Post Office (certified mail is not available online)
- Step 5: Request "Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested"
- Step 6: Pay the fee (approximately $10-$12)
- Step 7: Keep the certified mail receipt (green and white sticker)
- Step 8: Keep the return receipt when it comes back (postcard showing delivery and signature)
What Forms You Need at the Post Office
- PS Form 3800 (Certified Mail Receipt) – The green and white sticker with tracking number
- PS Form 3811 (Return Receipt) – The small green postcard showing who received the letter
The postal clerk will provide these forms and help you complete them.
Cost of Certified Mail with Return Receipt
- Certified Mail fee: ~$4.30
- Return Receipt fee: ~$3.15
- First-Class postage: ~$0.68 (1 oz) to $1.50 (3 oz)
- Total: Approximately $8-$12
Fees may vary by location and year.
How to Track Your Certified Mail
- Use the tracking number on your certified mail receipt
- Visit USPS.com and enter the tracking number
- Track shows when the letter was delivered and who signed for it
- Allow 3-5 business days for delivery
- Return receipt (green postcard) arrives separately 1-2 weeks after delivery
What to Keep for Your Records
Essential Documentation
- Copy of your response letter
- Copies of all supporting documents you sent
- Certified mail receipt (PS Form 3800)
- Return receipt (PS Form 3811) when it arrives
- Original IRS notice
Store these documents together for at least 7 years.
What If the IRS Claims They Didn't Receive Your Response?
If the IRS claims non-receipt:
- Provide the certified mail tracking number
- Show the return receipt (proof of delivery and signature)
- The USPS tracking shows delivery date and time
- This proves you mailed your response before the deadline
In legal disputes, the certified mail receipt and return receipt are admissible evidence.
Alternatives to In-Person Certified Mail
Certified Mail Labels Online:
- Purchase certified mail labels at USPS.com (Click-N-Ship)
- Print label at home
- Drop off at Post Office or schedule pickup
- Return receipt must still be requested separately
Do NOT Use These Methods for IRS Response
- Regular first-class mail (no proof of mailing)
- Email or fax (not accepted for most IRS responses)
- Private carriers like FedEx or UPS (IRS may not accept)
- Dropping in a mailbox without certified mail
Disclaimer: This tool provides informational assistance only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. For complex tax matters, consult a licensed tax professional or attorney.