How Do You Check Your IRS Transcript?

Your IRS transcript is a valuable document summarizing your tax records, including income, payments, and account activity. It is often needed for loan applications, tax issue resolution, or reviewing past filings. Given the sensitive nature of this information, the IRS provides multiple secure access methods.

There are three ways to obtain your transcript: online, by mail, or by phone. Each method has different requirements and processing times, so selecting the best option depends on how quickly you need the document.

Online Transcript Access

The fastest way to get your IRS transcript is through the agency’s online system, which allows immediate viewing and downloading. To use this service, you must create an account, verify your identity, and navigate the IRS portal.

Creating an Online Account

To access your transcript online, create an account on the IRS website. This requires your full name, Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and a valid email address. A U.S.-based phone capable of receiving text messages is also necessary for multi-factor authentication. If you already use an IRS account for payments or checking tax return statuses, you can use the same credentials.

Identity Verification Requirements

To prevent unauthorized access, the IRS requires additional verification. You must provide financial information linked to your identity, such as a credit card, mortgage, home equity loan, or auto loan account number. The IRS does not charge the card but confirms your identity against third-party databases.

Additionally, you must submit a photo of a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport, using a webcam or mobile phone. The system compares your photo to the ID. If verification fails or you cannot provide the necessary documentation, you must use another request method.

Viewing and Printing the Transcript

Once verified, log into the IRS portal and go to the “Get Transcript” section. You can choose from different types of transcripts, including a tax return transcript, tax account transcript, record of account transcript, or wage and income transcript. Each serves a different purpose, so review the descriptions before selecting.

After choosing the appropriate transcript, you can view it in PDF format, download, or print it. Since the document contains sensitive data, store it securely and avoid accessing it on public or shared computers. If you need transcripts for multiple years, retrieve them individually.

Request by Mail

If you prefer a physical copy or cannot complete online verification, you can request a transcript by mail. This method takes longer but does not require internet access or additional identity verification.

To request a transcript by mail, submit Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return) or Form 4506-T-EZ, depending on the type of transcript needed. These forms are available on the IRS website and should be mailed to the appropriate IRS address based on your location. The form requires your name, Social Security number, mailing address, and the tax year requested. Errors or missing information can cause delays, so ensure accuracy before submitting.

Processing usually takes five to ten calendar days from the date the IRS receives the request, though it may take longer during peak tax season. The transcript is mailed to the address on file with the IRS. If you’ve recently moved, you may need to file Form 8822 (Change of Address) to ensure proper delivery.

Phone Transcript Requests

If you prefer direct assistance or lack internet access, you can request a transcript by phone using the IRS automated system.

Call 800-908-9946 and follow the prompts to enter your Social Security number or ITIN, along with the street address on your most recent tax return. If your address has changed, the request may not process correctly, requiring you to update your records with the IRS first.

You can request different types of transcripts, such as a tax return transcript or tax account transcript. Processing times are similar to mail requests, with transcripts typically arriving within five to ten calendar days. Since documents are sent to the address on file, ensure your mailing information is current to avoid delays. If your transcript does not arrive within the expected timeframe, calling the IRS directly may be necessary to check on the status.

Checking Your Request Status

Tracking your transcript request ensures timely receipt and helps address potential issues. The IRS does not provide real-time tracking, but there are ways to confirm if your request has been processed.

For online requests, logging back into the IRS portal is the easiest way to check availability. If the document does not appear, there may be an issue with verification or processing. Reviewing your account for IRS notifications can provide clarification. If you requested a transcript through a third party, such as a financial institution or tax professional, check with them to confirm whether it has been retrieved.

For mail or phone requests, processing takes longer, making it harder to determine the exact status without contacting the IRS. If your transcript has not arrived within the expected timeframe, calling the IRS general assistance number can help verify whether your request has been processed and confirm mailing details. If delivery issues arise, an IRS representative can advise on next steps.