How Can I Get a Copy of My Tax Return?
Learn how to efficiently retrieve copies of your past tax returns for any financial need, whether from the IRS or other convenient sources.
Individuals often need copies of their tax returns for various purposes. These documents are commonly required when applying for a home mortgage, student financial aid, or other loans. Maintaining personal records is another important reason to have access to past tax filings. These copies provide a detailed financial history that can be beneficial for future planning or in case of an audit.
Understanding Different Tax Record Types
When seeking tax information, it is important to distinguish between a tax transcript and a full tax return copy. A tax transcript is a summary of key information from your tax return, such as adjusted gross income, taxable income, and payment history. It does not include the actual forms or schedules you filed, making it suitable for income verification or simple financial aid applications. Full tax return copies, conversely, are exact replicas of the entire tax return, including all schedules and attachments. This comprehensive record is often necessary for detailed financial analysis, legal proceedings, or when a complete picture of your filing is required.
Obtaining Tax Transcripts from the IRS
Obtaining a tax transcript from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires specific personal information to verify your identity. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status for the requested year, and your current mailing address. This information helps the IRS locate your records.
The quickest way to get a transcript is through the IRS Get Transcript Online tool. You must create an account and verify your identity through a multi-step process before accessing your tax records. Once logged in, you can download various types of transcripts, including tax return transcripts and tax account transcripts, for immediate use.
If you prefer to request a transcript by mail, you can use Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. This form is available directly on the IRS website, IRS.gov. You must complete all required fields on the form, indicating the specific tax year and type of transcript needed, and then mail the completed form to the IRS address provided in the form’s instructions.
Another option is to request a transcript by phone by calling the IRS directly. Have your personal identifying information ready when you call. Transcripts requested by mail or phone are processed and mailed within five to ten calendar days to the address on file with the IRS.
Requesting Full Tax Return Copies from the IRS
Requesting a complete copy of your tax return from the IRS involves a different process and a fee. To obtain a full copy, you will need to complete Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. This form requires your Social Security number, the specific tax year of the return you are requesting, and your current mailing address.
Form 4506 can be found on the IRS website, IRS.gov. You must fill out all sections of the form, ensuring the correct tax year is specified for each return requested. A fee of $43 applies for each tax period requested, and this payment must be included with your form. Payment methods are detailed in the form’s instructions, including checks or money orders payable to the U.S. Treasury.
After completing the form and preparing your payment, you must mail both documents to the appropriate IRS address listed in the Form 4506 instructions. The processing time for full tax return copies requested via mail is generally longer than for transcripts, often taking 75 calendar days or more from the date the IRS receives your request.
Accessing Returns Through Other Sources
Beyond direct IRS requests, several other avenues exist for obtaining copies of your tax returns. Many tax preparation software programs allow users to access and download past returns. You can log into your account on the software provider’s website to print or save the desired return.
Your tax preparer or accountant is another reliable source for past tax documents. These professionals retain client records for several years. You can contact them directly to request a copy of your filed returns, though some may charge a nominal service fee for retrieval and printing.
Check your own personal records. Many individuals save digital or physical copies of their tax returns on their computers, external hard drives, cloud storage, or in personal files.