According to recent IRS data, the average refund is $3,804, a 10% increase from the same week last year.
And most taxpayers are e-filing (41,377,000 e-filers so far). It seems everything is online these days — even the Internal Revenue Service, but if you’re a holdout and still want to file a paper return, you can … for now. Keep in mind that filing by mail (not electronically) might delay your refund.
Here’s how to file a paper return, how to check the status of your refund, and how to get your refund faster.
Read more: Your tax refund may be bigger this year. Here’s why.
The IRS is trying to reduce paper use and will eventually go paper-free. They’re well on their way, as last year, more than 93% of all returns were filed electronically. But you still have the option to file a paper return by mail. Here’s how:
You can download any form from the IRS website and even request paper forms. Most individuals filing a paper return will need:
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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’re concerned about the complexity of the standard Form 1040, there is a Form 1040-SR for older adults, age 65 and older. It is an easier-to-read form with bigger print, less shading, and simpler features.
When preparing a paper return, you’ll need to do the following:
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Enter your name, Social Security number, and address exactly as shown on your Social Security card.
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Report all income, deductions, and credits.
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Attach required schedules if your tax situation requires them. (The IRS instructions on the 1040 form list which schedules must be included.)
Typically, you must attach the following to the Form 1040:
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Form W-2 from your employer
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Form 1099-R if federal tax was withheld (reports IRA withdrawals, 401(k) distributions, pension payments, annuity distributions)
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Other forms showing withholding, if applicable. Here are a few examples:
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Form 1099-G (government benefits like unemployment compensation)
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Form 1099-NEC (nonemployee 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 around the country, each set up to receive returns from certain states. You can find the correct address on the IRS website (Where to file paper tax returns with or without a payment).
Where you send the form also depends on whether or not you’re sending a payment with the paperwork. The IRS recommends using the U.S. Postal Service to send a return with payment, and when you do, make sure you use a service with delivery confirmation and return receipt.
It’s also possible to use some private delivery services, but only the ones the IRS recommends, and it may delay your payment processing.
One reason you might want to reconsider filing a paper return is the delay in receiving your refund.
Most refunds for people who e-file their returns are issued within 21 days. It can take six weeks or more for someone who mails in a paper return.
If you file a paper return, and it’s been more than six weeks, you can check your refund status using the Where’s my refund? tool. When checking your refund status, you will need:
If you don’t have internet access, you can call the automated refund hotline at 800-829-1954 for a current-year refund or 866-464-2050 for an amended return.
If there is an error on your return or the IRS needs more information to process your return, the IRS will notify you by mail. Since there is already a delay in processing paper returns, any errors and error resolution will further delay your refund.
The fastest way to get a refund is to file your tax return electronically and select direct deposit.
If your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you can file your taxes for free at Free File.
If you make more than that, you can file for free using Free File Fillable Forms. But be aware that you will have to do the calculations yourself, and you might not be able to file a state return.
Learn more about free filing: How to file your 2025 tax return for free
Yes. Most refunds are processed within 21 days for someone who e-files, but can take six weeks or more if filed by mail.
If you want to get a refund faster, e-file your taxes and select direct deposit.
Your refund could be delayed for several reasons, including filing a paper return, claiming the earned income tax credit or child tax credit, filing an amended return, or making an error on your return.
If your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you can file your taxes for free at Free File.
If you make more than that, you can file for free at Free File Fillable Forms.
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