How to change someone else’s address with the IRS

You can — but only with authority. Form 8822 has to be signed by the taxpayer or by someone legally allowed to sign for them (a power-of-attorney holder, a guardian, or a fiduciary). If you sign as a representative, you attach a copy of your power of attorney. And it must be mailed — there’s no online way to do this for someone else.

Who is allowed to sign Form 8822?

The taxpayer. The simplest case — they sign their own form.
A representative with a power of attorney. File Form 2848 and attach a copy to Form 8822. The form’s instructions specifically allow a representative to sign when a power of attorney is attached.
A fiduciary. A court-appointed guardian or conservator files Form 56 to establish the fiduciary relationship, then can act for the taxpayer.
A parent, for a minor child’s account.

Helping an aging parent

This is the most common reason people ask. If your parent can still sign, the cleanest path is to fill the form for them and have them sign it. If they can’t, you need authority first — a power of attorney (Form 2848) naming you, or a fiduciary appointment (Form 56) — then you sign as their representative and attach the proof. A general financial POA isn’t always enough for the IRS; Form 2848 is the IRS’s own instrument and the safe choice.

It has to be mailed

However you’re authorized, Form 8822 goes in the mail to the IRS center for the taxpayer’s old state — there’s no fax or online submission. The IRS sends no confirmation, so keep proof of mailing. If the person has passed away, see Form 8822 for a deceased person.

Once it’s signed (by them, or by you with authority attached), we’ll print and mail it Certified for you — one less errand while you’re managing everything else.

Fill in the form now

Free to fill and mail yourself; $14.99 if we mail it certified.

Common questions

Can I change my elderly parent’s address with the IRS?

Only if you’re authorized — for example you hold a power of attorney (Form 2848) or are their fiduciary (Form 56). A representative signing Form 8822 attaches a copy of the power of attorney.

Can I change someone else’s IRS address online?

No. There’s no online option. Form 8822 must be signed by the taxpayer or an authorized person and mailed to the IRS.

What if the person has died?

An executor or personal representative handles it — see our guide on Form 8822 for a deceased person.

Sources: Form 8822 (Rev. 2-2021) instructions (representative signature); About Form 2848; About Form 56.