Money & Finance

How to Fax Tax Forms and Notice Responses

Tax documents carry your Social Security number and income details. If an agency asks you to fax them, a few checks keep that information from going astray.

When Tax Offices Ask for a Fax

Some tax offices accept faxed documents, for example when you are responding to a notice or sending supporting paperwork. Do not assume a fax is accepted. Check the notice or the agency's website for how it wants documents sent.

Use the Number on Your Notice

Read the noticeLook for a fax number and any reference or case number the agency asks you to include.

Do not trust a number from a search resultScam sites list look-alike numbers. Use the one printed on your notice or the agency's own site.

Check the departmentDifferent offices and departments often have different numbers.

Call if unsureConfirm the number and what to include before you send.

What to Include

A cover page with your name, the notice or reference number, and the date.
Only the pages the agency requested. Do not send extra documents.
A copy of the notice if the agency asks for it.

Protect Your Social Security Number

Send full identifiers only when the agency requires them and only to a number you have confirmed. Keep your own copy of everything you send, along with the delivery confirmation. See credit freezes if you are worried your identity is exposed.

Sending With Harbor Fax

Harbor Fax sends to any US or Canadian fax number, needs no account, and deletes your file once delivery is confirmed. It costs $1.79 for up to 3 pages, or $2.99 for up to 25. Need a cover sheet first? Use the free fax cover sheet generator. Send a fax. For general steps, see send a fax from your computer.

Common Questions

Can I fax my tax return?

Whether a return can be faxed depends on the form and the agency. Check the instructions for your form and your notice before sending.

Where do I find the right fax number?

On the notice you received or on the agency's own website. Avoid numbers from third-party directories.

Should I keep proof that I sent it?

Yes. Keep the delivery confirmation and a copy of every page you sent.

Is it safe to fax my Social Security number?

Only send it if the agency requires it, to a number you have confirmed. Use a service that does not store your document.

Does Harbor Fax keep my tax documents?

No. Harbor Fax deletes your document once delivery is confirmed and does not require an account.

SEND A FAX WITH NOTHING STORED

No account, deleted on delivery, from $1.79 for up to 3 pages. Open Harbor Fax.