Tax Return Envelopes

Tax envelopes are used to securely mail IRS forms and client tax documents.

Yes. Tax envelopes are sized to meet common IRS mailing requirements.

Tax professionals use several envelope types including standard #10 envelopes for correspondence, 9x12 or 10x13 catalog envelopes for complete return packages, and security-tinted envelopes that protect sensitive financial information such as SSNs and EINs from visibility through the envelope.

While the IRS does not mandate a specific envelope brand, returns must be sent to the correct IRS processing center based on form type and payer location. For sending to the IRS processing center, certified mail with return receipt is strongly recommended to establish a postmark date as proof of timely filing. For sending to recipients, tax documents must be mailed via first-class mail.

Yes. Tax professionals are strongly advised to use security envelopes with interior tinting or security printing when mailing W-2 copies, 1099 statements, or any document containing personally identifiable information (PII) such as Social Security numbers or Employer Identification Numbers. Additionally, IRS has determined that logos, slogans, and advertising are not generally allowed on an envelope containing any information return typically form W-2, 1098, 1099 etc.

Standard 8.5 x 11 inch tax documents fit in a 9x12 envelope without folding. For complete return packages with multiple schedules, a 10x13 envelope is preferred. #10 envelopes are used for shorter correspondence such as transmittal letters or estimated tax payment vouchers.