CP31 Notice
The CP31 is an IRS notice informing you that your refund check was returned to the IRS because it was undeliverable. You need to update your address so the IRS can reissue your refund.
Why Did You Receive This Notice?
You received a CP31 because the U.S. Postal Service was unable to deliver your refund check and returned it to the IRS. This typically happens when you moved without updating your address with the IRS, the address on your tax return contained an error, or you moved between filing your return and receiving your refund.
What Does this Mean for You?
The CP31 means the IRS has your refund but cannot mail it to you. Your money is not lost — it is being held by the IRS until they have a valid address for you. The notice asks you to update your address so they can reissue the check.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Your Options
- Update your address online: Use IRS Form 8822 (Change of Address) to notify the IRS of your new address and request your refund be reissued.
- Call the IRS: You can also call the number on the CP31 notice and provide your updated address verbally. Request confirmation that the refund will be reissued.
- Set up direct deposit for the future: Going forward, having your refund directly deposited eliminates the risk of a returned check.
Step-By-Step: What To Do Next
Step 1: Confirm your current mailing address and verify it differs from the address on file with the IRS.
Step 2: Complete IRS Form 8822 (Change of Address) or call the IRS directly at the number on the CP31.
Step 3: Submit your updated address to the IRS as soon as possible.
Step 4: Request confirmation that your refund check will be reissued to the new address.
Step 5: Allow 4–6 weeks after updating your address for the reissued check to arrive.
Step 6: For future returns, enroll in direct deposit to avoid this issue.
Can You Handle this Yourself?
The CP31 is entirely self-serviceable. You just need to give the IRS your correct address. The simplest route is calling the number on the notice — most people can resolve this in a single call. You can also submit Form 8822 by mail, but a phone call is faster. Once your address is updated, the IRS will reissue your refund check within a few weeks.
Expert Insight From Rockwater Tax
At Rockwater Tax, we see CP31 notices frequently when clients move during tax season. The fix is simple, but don't wait too long — if you have other outstanding tax matters, having an incorrect address on file can cause additional notices to go to the wrong place. We also recommend signing up for an IRS Online Account and enabling email notifications so future correspondence reaches you quickly.
Need a hand?
FAQ
Q: Is my refund lost after getting a CP31?
A: No. Your refund is being held by the IRS. Once you update your address, they will reissue the check.
Q: How long does it take to get my reissued refund?
A: After updating your address, allow 4–6 weeks for the reissued check to arrive.
Q: Can I get my refund by direct deposit instead of a check?
A: If your original return requested a check, the reissued refund will also be by check. For future returns, you can elect direct deposit to avoid this problem.
