IRS Form 9000 – Alternative Media Preference – In today’s digital age, accessibility is key, especially when it comes to important government communications like tax notices. If you’re a taxpayer with print disabilities, IRS Form 9000 – Alternative Media Preference offers a straightforward way to ensure you receive IRS written communications in a format that suits your needs. This form allows you to elect alternative media options, making tax-related information more accessible and easier to manage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what IRS Form 9000 is, who it’s for, how to file it, and more, drawing from official IRS sources to provide accurate, up-to-date information as of 2026.
What Is IRS Form 9000?
IRS Form 9000, officially titled “Alternative Media Preference,” is a simple one-page form designed to help taxpayers request IRS notices and communications in accessible formats. Introduced to comply with accessibility standards under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, this form enables individuals with print disabilities – such as visual impairments – to choose from several alternative media options instead of standard print.
The form’s primary purpose is to elect or change your preference for how the IRS sends written communications, including formal letters, notices about your income tax account, and other correspondence. Once processed, your election applies to future communications, and you’ll also receive a standard print copy in the same envelope for reference. Attachments to these communications are typically provided in the chosen alternative format as well.
The current revision of Form 9000 is from November 2021, with no recent developments noted as of October 2025. You can download the PDF directly from the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f9000.pdf.
Who Should Use IRS Form 9000?
This form is specifically for taxpayers with print disabilities who need IRS materials in alternative formats to access them effectively. Print disabilities can include conditions like blindness, low vision, or other impairments that make reading standard print challenging. If you’re filing jointly with a spouse, each person must submit a separate Form 9000 if they wish to make an election.
Even if you’re not required to file a tax return, you can still submit Form 9000 separately. The IRS encourages anyone needing accommodations to use this form or alternative methods like calling their helpline to ensure equal access to tax information. Additionally, the IRS Alternative Media Center (AMC) supports this by providing tax products in formats compatible with assistive technologies, such as screen readers or Braille displays.
Available Alternative Media Formats on Form 9000
When filling out IRS Form 9000, you’ll select one (and only one) preference from the following options. Checking more than one box will result in the form not being processed. Here’s a breakdown of each:
- 00 Standard Print (Cancels prior election): Choose this to revert to regular print communications if you’ve previously selected an alternative format.
- 01 Large Print: Enlarged font, typically 18 points or larger (16 points for nonessential text), ideal for those with low vision.
- 02 Braille: Grade 2 Interpoint Braille, a tactile reading system using raised dots.
- 03 Audio (MP3): Text-to-speech generated files delivered on a USB flash drive.
- 04 Plain Text File (TXT): Unformatted text on a USB drive, compatible with screen readers.
- 05 Braille Ready File (BRF): Digital format for Braille displays or devices, also on a USB drive.
These formats ensure that IRS communications are accessible, and the AMC provides them in Spanish and other languages where available, with large print options in multiple languages.
How to File IRS Form 9000: Step-by-Step Guide?
Filing IRS Form 9000 is straightforward and can be done in several ways. Here’s how:
- Attach to Your Tax Return: If you’re filing Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR, 1040-PR, or 1040-SS, simply attach Form 9000 and mail it to the address in your return’s instructions. For e-filed returns, you don’t need to submit a paper version – your preference can be noted digitally if applicable.
- Mail Separately: If you’ve already filed your return or aren’t required to file one, mail the completed form to:
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Kansas City, MO 64999-0002 - Online or by Phone: Alternatively, select your preference through your IRS Individual Online Account, or call 800-829-1040 to make or change your election. Phone requests are processed within 2 weeks, while mailed forms may take 6-8 weeks if filed separately.
When completing the form, provide your name, Social Security Number (SSN), and address (if filing standalone). The name and SSN must match your tax return if attached. Sign and date it only if filing separately.
For foreign addresses, include additional details like country name, province, and postal code.
Changing or Canceling Your Alternative Media Preference
If your needs change, you can update your preference at any time by filing a new Form 9000 or calling 800-829-1040. To cancel and return to standard print, check the “00 Standard Print” box. For specific documents in a different format, contact the IRS directly.
If you encounter issues, such as penalties due to not receiving notices in your preferred format, you can request abatement using Form 843. Assistance is available from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) or Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs).
Additional Resources and Support
The IRS is committed to nondiscrimination and provides reasonable accommodations. For more help:
- Accessibility Helpline: Call 833-690-0598 for support with accessible formats.
- Alternative Media Center Info: Visit the IRS page on the AMC for details on available products.
- Fax Option: Fax notices with a cover sheet to 855-473-2006 for alternative formats.
- Complaints: If you face discrimination, email [email protected] or mail to the Civil Rights Division.
Free tax preparation services like VITA or TCE may also assist with Form 9000.
Frequently Asked Questions About IRS Form 9000
1. What if I need communications in a language other than English?
Use Form 1040 Schedule LEP to request notices in your preferred language, in addition to Form 9000 for format preferences.
2. How long does it take for my preference to take effect?
If attached to your return, it’s processed with the return. Standalone mailings take 6-8 weeks, and phone requests take about 2 weeks.
3. Can I request alternative formats for past notices?
Yes, call 800-829-1040 or use the Accessibility Helpline for specific requests.
By using IRS Form 9000, you’re taking an important step toward making tax season more accessible. Always consult the official IRS website for the latest updates, and consider professional tax advice for your specific situation. This ensures compliance and peace of mind in handling your tax obligations.