Form 8453, U.S. Individual Income Tax Transmittal for an IRS e-file Return
Form 8453 is the cover sheet for mailing paper documents that must accompany an e-filed individual return. Fill in the official IRS PDF below and download it.
This is the genuine IRS PDF, unmodified. Source: IRS official page.
What is 8453?
Form 8453, U.S. Individual Income Tax Transmittal for an IRS e-file Return, is used after you e-file a Form 1040 series return when certain supporting documents still have to reach the IRS on paper. The front of the form lists checkboxes for the specific attachments it can carry, such as an appraisal with Form 8283, a power of attorney, or broker statements supporting Form 8949 totals.
It is purely a transmittal: it does not change your return or serve as a signature document. E-file signatures are handled separately, generally with a self-selected PIN or Form 8879 through a tax professional. You mail Form 8453 with the listed attachments to the IRS address in the instructions shortly after your e-filed return is accepted.
Who files 8453?
- Taxpayers who e-filed a 1040 series return and must send a listed paper attachment to the IRS
- Filers attaching appraisals or donee-signed Form 8283 pages for large noncash donations
- Investors sending broker statements that substantiate summarized Form 8949 transactions
- Electronic return originators (EROs) transmitting required paper documents for clients
How to fill out 8453
- Enter your name, Social Security number, and address exactly as they appear on the e-filed return, including your spouse if filing jointly.
- Check the box for each document you are sending; only the forms listed on Form 8453 may be attached.
- Gather the paper attachments the checked boxes call for.
- Download the completed PDF and print it.
- Mail Form 8453 with the attachments to the IRS address in the instructions, generally within three business days after your e-filed return is accepted.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Form 8453 how I sign my e-filed return?
No. Signatures for e-filed individual returns are handled with a PIN or with Form 8879 when a tax professional transmits the return. Form 8453 only transmits paper attachments that cannot be sent electronically.
Should I attach my W-2s to Form 8453?
No. The IRS specifically says not to send Forms W-2, W-2G, or 1099-R with Form 8453. Their data is already part of the e-filed return. Only send the documents listed on the front of the form.
What happens if I forget to mail it?
Your e-filed return is still valid, but the IRS may lack substantiation it expects, which can delay processing or trigger a follow-up notice. Mail the form and attachments promptly after your return is accepted.