Overview

Moving while your federal tax return is being processed creates two common problems: the IRS may mail a paper refund to your old address, or your refund can be delayed while the IRS completes identity or address verification. Electronic refunds (direct deposit) generally avoid mailed-address problems, but closed bank accounts can still cause issues. The IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool is the fastest first step for status checks (see IRS refunds page).

Immediate steps to take if you moved after filing

  • Check “Where’s My Refund?” at the IRS website to confirm status and delivery method (direct deposit vs. paper check). Source: IRS — https://www.irs.gov/refunds.
  • File Form 8822 (Change of Address) with the IRS as soon as possible. This updates IRS records for future correspondence but does not always stop a refund already mailed; see the official form page for details: https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8822. For guidance on completing Form 8822, see our walkthrough: Form 8822 (Change of Address).
  • If you elected direct deposit and your bank account is closed, contact your bank first — they may be able to re-credit the funds. If that fails, the IRS can assist in tracing the deposit.

If the IRS already mailed a paper refund to your old address

  • Start a missing-refund trace. For mailed checks that were lost, stolen, or sent to the wrong address, the IRS uses Form 3911 to begin a refund trace. The IRS Form 3911 page explains the process and timing.
  • If you discover the check was delivered to an old residence, contact the current occupants and the local post office immediately. Do not post personal banking information; instead, verify whether the check can be returned.
  • Our guide on tracing mailed refunds explains when to request a trace and what information the IRS will ask for: Tracking Paper Refunds: When to Request a Trace.

When to contact the IRS directly

Contact the IRS (or your tax professional) when:

  • “Where’s My Refund?” shows a delay of more than the typical processing window (electronic returns are often processed within about 21 days but can take longer when identity verification is required) — IRS guidance: https://www.irs.gov/refunds.
  • Your refund was mailed to the wrong address or an old bank account.
  • You suspect fraud or identity theft (the IRS will put extra holds and request identity verification).

What information you’ll need when you call or file a trace

  • Your Social Security number or ITIN, filing status, and exact refund amount.
  • A copy of the filed return (Form 1040/1040-SR) and proof of new address (utility bill, lease) if requesting address updates.
  • Dates you moved and any mail-forwarding information.

Avoid these common mistakes

  • Relying on USPS forwarding alone — the USPS change of address does not automatically update IRS records. File Form 8822 instead.
  • Waiting too long to act — the earlier you file 8822 or start a trace, the faster the IRS can correct routing or begin recovery.
  • Sharing sensitive details with unsolicited callers or emails. Verify communications using official IRS channels and reference IRS.gov for contact info.

Related resources

Practical tips from experience

In my 15 years advising clients, the fastest fixes are preventive: choose direct deposit when possible, double-check address fields before submitting, and file Form 8822 immediately after a move. If a paper check disappears, start a trace within 30 days — that short window speeds recovery and reduces the chance of misdelivery.

Professional disclaimer

This article is educational only and does not replace personalized tax advice. For help with a specific case, consult a qualified tax professional or use official IRS resources (https://www.irs.gov/).