Cheapest Way to Mail Tax Return Forms to US IRS?

[ceeyee]

I need to send tax returns to IRS in the US. It's just a few pages of 1040NR.
What is the cheapest way to mail the forms from Singapore to US IRS?

Thanks.

[malcontent]

I’ve been mailing my paper tax returns to the IRS from Singapore since the 1990’s. The cost is generally S$2.50-3.50 depending on the page count. I have always sent them via normal airmail using Singpost, and it has never failed to reach them. I’ve asked Singpost about registered mail, but they said it can’t be tracked once it enters the U.S. mail system, so it’s pretty useless. If you want total assurance that the documents were delivered, you’ll have to pay the price and use the likes of FedEx or similar.

Personally, I’m a cheap b#%*#d and don’t mind taking my chances. I will wait up to 6 months to see if the check clears or refund materializes (or if neither is expected, I’ll request a transcript for proof they got it). I realize that not everyone has my patience or risk tolerance, but this is me.

[sundaymorningstaple]

Additionally, If you are filing from a foreign address and have a balance due and send them a physical cheque, you cannot use any of the alternative delivery services like DHL, FedEx or UPS (which are the only 3 services allowed to be used for the various address that are IRS Offices). The Delivery Services cannot deliver to a PO Box (which is the N. Carolina address for foreign posted returns with enclosed cheques). The PO address in N. Carolina will only accept from the USPS. All others must be sent to the Austin TX address. If you pay electronically however you can send using the Austin TX address using a Delivery Service or the USPS.

Mal, I do the same thing. I refuse to send electronic payments as long as they keep sending me refund cheques for less that the postage is cost them to mail it. Especially when they can direct deposit it into my US account (have given them that info several years ago). But on the initial return I still mail a hard copy and handwritten cheque.

[malcontent]

That’s right - I believe they will only use your direct deposit info on a “return by return” basis in case you’ve closed the account in the meantime.

I managed to avoid paying any taxes up until the last time, and now I’m paying quarterly estimated to avoid penalties for this time around. Overall, I’m still ahead considering the stimulus payments and child tax credits (back when it was allowed), so for me at least it has been net dollar positive being US taxable in Singapore, but calling it a major PIA is an understatement.