Can I fax my tax return (Form 1040) to the IRS?

No. Original tax returns (Form 1040) cannot be faxed — they must be e-filed or mailed. However, amended returns (Form 1040-X), audit responses, and IRS notice replies can be faxed when the IRS provides a specific fax number on your notice. See our [guide to faxing Form 1040](/blog/how-to-fax-form-1040-to-irs/).

What is the IRS fax number for Form SS-4 (EIN application)?

For domestic filers: 855-641-6935. For international filers within the U.S.: 855-215-1627. For filers outside the U.S.: 304-707-9471. EIN applications faxed to the IRS are typically processed within 4 business days.

What is the IRS fax number for Form 2848 (Power of Attorney)?

The IRS fax number for Form 2848 is 855-772-3156 for domestic filers. For international cases handled by the CAF team, use +1 (267) 466-1017.

How do I confirm the IRS received my fax?

The IRS does not send fax confirmation receipts. Your fax transmission log (from your machine or online fax service) is your proof of delivery. Save it immediately. You can call 800-829-1040 to ask the IRS to verify receipt if needed. Services like mFax automatically provide a delivery confirmation email.

How long does it take the IRS to process a faxed document?

Processing times vary by form: Form SS-4 (EIN) takes 4 business days; Form 4506-T (transcripts) takes up to 10 business days; Form 2553 (S Corp election) and Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) take 3–5 business days. Faxed documents reach the IRS immediately, but processing takes additional time.

How to Fax to the IRS: Numbers, Forms & Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Need to fax documents to the IRS? This guide covers every IRS fax number by form, which documents can and cannot be faxed, a 6-step sending process, and how to do it from your phone in under 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fax my tax return (Form 1040) to the IRS?: No. Original tax returns (Form 1040) cannot be faxed — they must be e-filed or mailed. However, amended returns (Form 1040-X), audit responses, and IRS notice replies can be faxed when the IRS provides a specific fax number on your notice. See our [guide to faxing Form 1040](/blog/how-to-fax-form-1040-to-irs/).
What is the IRS fax number for Form SS-4 (EIN application)?: For domestic filers: 855-641-6935. For international filers within the U.S.: 855-215-1627. For filers outside the U.S.: 304-707-9471. EIN applications faxed to the IRS are typically processed within 4 business days.
What is the IRS fax number for Form 2848 (Power of Attorney)?: The IRS fax number for Form 2848 is 855-772-3156 for domestic filers. For international cases handled by the CAF team, use +1 (267) 466-1017.
How do I confirm the IRS received my fax?: The IRS does not send fax confirmation receipts. Your fax transmission log (from your machine or online fax service) is your proof of delivery. Save it immediately. You can call 800-829-1040 to ask the IRS to verify receipt if needed. Services like mFax automatically provide a delivery confirmation email.
How long does it take the IRS to process a faxed document?: Processing times vary by form: Form SS-4 (EIN) takes 4 business days; Form 4506-T (transcripts) takes up to 10 business days; Form 2553 (S Corp election) and Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) take 3–5 business days. Faxed documents reach the IRS immediately, but processing takes additional time.