Can you fax documents to the IRS?
Yes, but with specific limitations. The IRS generally does not accept faxed tax returns (like Form 1040)—those must be e-filed or mailed. However, the agency actively encourages faxing for specific time-sensitive forms, responses to audit inquiries, and business entity elections.
Faxing is often the fastest way to resolve administrative tasks without waiting weeks for mail processing. It provides a timestamped proof of transmission, which is critical when meeting strict deadlines for S-Corp elections or requesting an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number)
- Form 2553 (Election by a Small Business Corporation)
- Form 2848 (Power of Attorney)
- Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization)
- Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund)
Essential IRS Fax Numbers (2026)
The IRS does not use a single central fax number. Instead, numbers are assigned based on the specific form you are filing and, in some cases, your geographic location. Sending sensitive documents to the wrong number will result in delays or lost paperwork.
Fax Numbers for Form SS-4 (EIN Application)
Form SS-4 allows businesses to apply for an EIN. The fax number depends on where your principal business is located.
- 50 States or DC: 855-641-6935
- No legal residence in US (Domestic): 855-215-1627
- International (Outside US): 304-707-9471
Fax Numbers for Form 2553 (S-Corp Election)
S-Corporation elections must be filed within specific timeframes. The general fax number for these requests is 855-214-7522, but always verify current instructions as regional processing centers may vary.
Fax Numbers for Authorizations (Forms 2848 & 8821)
If you are authorizing a CPA or tax attorney to represent you, these forms are typically routed based on your location relative to the Mississippi River.
- Eastern United States: 855-214-7519
- Western United States: 855-214-7522
- International: 304-707-9785
How to send a secure fax to the IRS online
You do not need a physical fax machine to send documents to the IRS. In fact, digital fax services like 1Fax are often more secure because they encrypt the transmission and provide a digital audit trail that paper machines lack.
To send your form:
1. **Download and complete the PDF**: Fill out the official form from the IRS website.
2. **Create a cover sheet**: The IRS requires a cover sheet containing your name, SSN/EIN, and contact details.
3. **Upload to 1Fax**: Drag and drop your PDF and cover sheet into the secure dashboard.
4. **Enter the precise fax number**: Double-check the destination number from the form instructions.
5. **Send and save confirmation**: 1Fax will email you a success notification. Save this as proof of timely filing.
Security and Privacy Tips
When transmitting highly sensitive information like Social Security Numbers, security is paramount. Digital faxing uses T.38 encryption protocols, which offers a higher degree of security than unencrypted email attachments.
Always ensure your digital fax provider is HIPAA compliant or uses enterprise-grade encryption for data in transit and at rest. 1Fax automatically deletes documents after successful delivery, ensuring your tax data does not sit indefinitely in cloud storage.