How to fax Form 3911 to the IRS, refund trace request
Form 3911 is generally mailed, not faxed. The IRS only accepts Form 3911 by fax when their letter specifically requests it, in which case the fax number appears on the IRS letter itself. Otherwise, mail to the address on the form's instructions.
⚠️ Important: Form 3911 is generally not faxable. Mail it to the address listed on the form unless the IRS has sent you a letter requesting it by fax. If you have an IRS letter with a fax number, use that number, it routes to the specific representative handling your case.
What is Form 3911?
Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund) is used to request a trace on a refund check that was lost, stolen, destroyed, or not received. The IRS uses your statement to determine whether to issue a replacement check.
When to file Form 3911
You should file Form 3911 only if at least one of these applies:
The IRS told you the refund was issued, but you never received it
The check was lost, stolen, or destroyed
The check was not cashed within 365 days
The IRS sent you a letter (CP54, CP31, etc.) asking you to complete Form 3911
Wait at least 4 weeks after the refund was issued (or 6 weeks if mailed) before filing. The IRS Where's My Refund tool will tell you the issuance date.
Fax vs. mail, the rules
Situation
Method
Where
IRS letter requested Form 3911 by fax
Fax
The number on the IRS letter
You initiated the inquiry
Mail
Address on Form 3911 instructions (depends on state)
IRS letter requested by mail
Mail
The address on the IRS letter
Have an IRS letter with a fax number?
Upload Form 3911, we'll fax to the exact number on your letter. Confirmation receipt for proof of timely response.
Section 2: Refund check details, tax year, refund amount, type of refund, IRS letter date if applicable
Section 3: What happened, check the box that applies (not received, lost, stolen, destroyed)
Section 4: Direct deposit info if you want a replacement deposited
Section 5: Sign and date
What happens after you submit
The IRS investigates the refund trace. If the original check was not cashed, they may:
Issue a replacement check or direct deposit (typically 6-8 weeks)
Reverse the refund and apply it to other debts (if applicable)
Send you a letter with status
If the original check was cashed (signature forgery), the IRS forwards the case to the Bureau of the Fiscal Service for forgery investigation, which can take longer.
There is no universal fax number for Form 3911. The IRS only accepts Form 3911 by fax when they have specifically requested it via letter, in which case the fax number is printed on that letter. Otherwise, mail Form 3911 to the address on the form's instructions for your state.
Can I fax Form 3911 to the IRS?
Only if the IRS sent you a letter requesting Form 3911 by fax. The fax number on the letter routes to the specific IRS representative handling your case. Faxing to a generic IRS number will not work.
How long should I wait before filing Form 3911?
Wait at least 4 weeks if your refund was direct deposited, or 6 weeks if mailed. Check the IRS 'Where's My Refund' tool at irs.gov/refunds for the original issuance date before filing Form 3911.
What information do I need for Form 3911?
You need your SSN, the tax year of the refund, the expected refund amount, the type of refund (check or direct deposit), and details about what happened (not received, lost, stolen, destroyed). Have any IRS letters about the refund handy.
How long does the IRS take to process a refund trace?
The IRS typically completes the trace in 6-8 weeks. If the check was cashed and you suspect forgery, the case goes to the Bureau of the Fiscal Service for investigation, which can take 3-6 months.
Will I receive a replacement check?
If the IRS confirms the original was not cashed, they will issue a replacement check or direct deposit. If the original was cashed, the IRS investigates whether forgery occurred, replacement depends on the investigation outcome.
Can I track my Form 3911 trace request?
Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (business) and reference your Form 3911 submission date. The IRS does not have an online tracking tool specifically for refund traces.
Do I sign Form 3911 if I'm filing jointly?
Both spouses must sign Form 3911 if the original tax return was filed jointly. Missing signatures will delay the trace.
Can I file Form 3911 for a stimulus payment?
Yes. Form 3911 was used during stimulus payment programs to trace missing Economic Impact Payments. The same form and process applied, but most stimulus programs are now closed.
What if my refund was issued more than a year ago?
If the refund check was not cashed within 12 months, the Treasury cancels the check and the refund returns to your IRS account. Filing Form 3911 prompts the IRS to reissue. After several years, statutes of limitation may apply, call the IRS for guidance.
Is Form 3911 the same as Form 1310?
No. Form 3911 is for tracing a missing refund. Form 1310 is for claiming a refund on behalf of a deceased taxpayer. Different purposes, don't confuse them.
How do I know if I should fax or mail Form 3911?
Read any IRS letter you have carefully. If the letter says 'fax to [number]', fax it. If the letter says 'mail to [address]' or you have no IRS letter, mail Form 3911 to the address listed in the form's instructions for your state.
Trace your missing refund
When the IRS requests Form 3911 by fax, upload the form here. We add the cover sheet and route to the number on your letter. Pay $2.99.