OpenTax currently supports paper filing only. This guide walks you through printing, signing, and mailing your federal and state returns.
After OpenTax generates your return PDFs, follow these steps before mailing.
Print every page of your federal return (Form 1040 and all schedules/forms) and your state return. Use standard letter-size paper (8.5" × 11"). Black-and-white is fine.
Sign the bottom of Form 1040 (page 2). If filing jointly, both spouses must sign. State returns also have a signature line—check the last page of each state form. Use ink (not pencil).
Attach Copy B of every W-2 to the front of your federal Form 1040. If any 1099 shows federal tax withheld, attach that too. State returns typically require Copy 2 of your W-2—check your state's instructions.
If your return shows a balance due, you can pay online (recommended) or include a check/money order with your mailed return. If paying by mail, make the check payable to "United States Treasury" (federal) or the appropriate state agency, and write your SSN, tax year, and form number on it. Include the payment voucher (Form 1040-V for federal) if applicable.
Use USPS Certified Mail with return receipt, or another trackable service. This gives you proof of the postmark date (the IRS treats the postmark as your filing date) and proof of delivery.
Keep a copy of your completed return, all attachments, and your mailing receipt. The IRS recommends keeping tax records for at least three years.
Even if you mail your return, you can pay any balance owed online. This is faster, avoids mailing a check, and you get instant confirmation. The IRS accepts several free and low-cost payment methods:
Pay directly from your bank account. No registration required. You can schedule payments up to a year in advance.
Pay with Direct PaySign in to your IRS account to pay, view payment history, and set up payment plans. Requires ID.me verification.
IRS Online AccountPay through an IRS-approved payment processor. Processing fee applies (typically 1.85–1.98% for credit cards; ~$2 flat for debit cards).
Pay by cardElectronic Federal Tax Payment System. Free bank transfer, but requires enrollment (takes 5–7 business days to receive PIN by mail).
Enroll at EFTPS.govThe IRS mailing address depends on which state you live in and whether you're including a payment. Rather than listing addresses that may change, use the official IRS page:
IRS: Where to File Paper Tax ReturnsOpenTax currently supports the following states. Each state has its own mailing address and instructions. Use the official links below to find the correct address for your state return.
Franchise Tax Board (FTB). Mailing address depends on whether you owe, are due a refund, or are filing with no payment.
Department of Revenue Services (DRS). Address varies by refund vs. balance due.
Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR). Check the D-40 instructions for the current mailing address.
Florida does not impose a personal income tax. No state return to mail. You only need to mail your federal return.
Department of Revenue. Address is printed on the Form 500 instructions; verify on the DOR website.
Comptroller of Maryland. Separate addresses for refund returns vs. balance due.
Department of Revenue (DOR). Mailing address is in the Form 1 instructions.
Department of Revenue. Address is on the D-400 instructions; different for refund vs. payment.
Division of Taxation. Mailing address is printed on the NJ-1040 instructions.
Department of Taxation and Finance. Mailing address depends on whether you're enclosing a payment.
Department of Revenue. The PA-40 instructions list the current mailing address.
Department of Taxation. Address varies by return type; check the Form 760 instructions.