---
title: IRS address change vs USPS change-of-address (when to file Form 8822)
description: USPS Change-of-Address (COA) and IRS address updates solve different problems. USPS forwarding helps reroute eligible mail for a period of time. Form 8822 updates IRS records for future tax correspondence.
seotitle: IRS address change vs USPS change-of-address | PostalForm
seo-description: USPS Change-of-Address and IRS address updates are not the same. Learn when to file IRS Form 8822, when businesses should use Form 8822-B, and what to mail.
group: resources
indexable: true
nav: false
schema: article
eyebrow: Tax guide
published: 2026-02-18
updated: 2026-06-13
path: /tax/irs-address-change-vs-usps-change-of-address
---
# IRS address change vs USPS change-of-address (when to file Form 8822)

USPS Change-of-Address (COA) and IRS address updates solve different problems. USPS forwarding helps reroute eligible mail for a period of time. Form 8822 updates IRS records for future tax correspondence.

## Key takeaways
- USPS COA does not permanently update IRS records.
- Form 8822 is commonly used for individual IRS mailing address changes.
- Businesses and responsible parties generally use Form 8822-B.
- IRS processing can take several weeks, so file early.

[Start IRS Form 8822](cta)

## What USPS Change-of-Address does
USPS COA forwards many pieces of mail from your old address to your new one for a limited window. It is useful after a move, but it is not a replacement for direct agency record updates.

## What IRS Form 8822 does
Form 8822 updates your IRS mailing address on file for individual-related tax correspondence.

Use it when:

- You moved and want future IRS notices sent to your new address.
- You need to correct the IRS mailing address currently on file.

## When to use Form 8822-B instead
If the address change relates to a business or responsible party update, Form 8822-B is usually the relevant form. PostalForm's guided Form 8822-B kit supports address and location changes only, not responsible-party changes.

- [Form 8822 vs Form 8822-B](/tax/form-8822-vs-8822-b)
- [Prepare Form 8822-B for a supported business address or location change](/forms/8822-b)

## Practical filing workflow
1. Confirm whether your situation is Form 8822 or Form 8822-B.
2. Complete the correct form with old and new address details.
3. Verify signatures and required identifying details.
4. Mail to the correct IRS destination in current instructions.
5. Keep mailing proof and note when IRS processing should be complete.

## Timing and deadline planning
IRS indicates address updates can take roughly 4 to 6 weeks. If you are near a response deadline, do not wait until the last few days.

## Common mistakes
- Assuming USPS COA automatically updates IRS records.
- Filing the wrong form (8822 vs 8822-B).
- Mailing to an outdated IRS address.
- Missing signatures or key identifying details.
- Filing too late for an upcoming IRS notice deadline.

## Sources
- [IRS Change your address with IRS](https://www.irs.gov/faqs/irs-procedures/address-changes)
- [IRS About Form 8822](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8822)
- [IRS About Form 8822-B](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8822-b)
- [USPS Change of Address - The Basics](https://faq.usps.com/s/article/Change-of-Address-The-Basics)


## FAQs
- **If I already filed USPS COA, do I still need Form 8822?** In many cases yes, because IRS records are separate.
- **Can I use Form 8822 for my company?** Usually no. Businesses generally use Form 8822-B.
- **How long does IRS address processing take?** IRS guidance indicates approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
- **Where do I mail Form 8822?** Use the latest IRS instructions and mailing tables.


## Related
- [Change of address form: pick the right one](/forms/topic/address-change)
- [IRS Form 8822 filing guide](/tax/irs-form-8822-change-of-address-guide)
- [Where to mail Form 8822](/tax/where-to-mail-form-8822)
- [Form 8822 vs Form 8822-B](/tax/form-8822-vs-8822-b)
- [Can you file Form 8822 online?](/tax/can-you-file-form-8822-online)
- [USPS change-of-address checklist (and when to file IRS Form 8822)](/tax/usps-change-of-address-checklist)
- [IRS Form 8822 online workflow](/forms/8822)


## Ready to send it?
Use Form 8822 for eligible individual address changes and mail with tracking when proof matters.

[Start IRS Form 8822](/forms/8822)