How to Access Your IRS Tax Return History

Looking back at past tax returns can be useful for applying for a loan, verifying income, or correcting errors. The IRS provides multiple ways to access this information, depending on what you need and how far back you’re looking.

Documents to Gather

Having the right information on hand will make the process smoother. The IRS requires specific details to verify your identity and locate the correct records. At a minimum, you’ll need your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you filed jointly, your spouse’s SSN or ITIN may also be necessary.

Your most recent tax return contains key details like your filing status and adjusted gross income (AGI), which may be needed for identity verification. If you’ve moved since your last filing, ensure you have your current and previous addresses, as discrepancies can cause delays.

If requesting records on behalf of someone else, such as a deceased relative or a business, additional documentation is required. A court-appointed executor must provide legal proof of authority, while business owners need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and supporting documents like Articles of Incorporation or IRS Form 2848 (Power of Attorney).

Distinctions Between Transcripts and Return Copies

Understanding the difference between a tax return transcript and a full copy of a filed return is important, as they serve different purposes and come with varying processing times and costs.

A tax return transcript provides a summary of key information from your filing, including adjusted gross income, taxable income, and any credits or deductions claimed. The IRS offers this document for free, and it is often sufficient for mortgage applications or student financial aid verification. Since it omits attachments like W-2s or 1099s, it may not be suitable if you need a full reconstruction of your filing. Transcripts are typically available for the current tax year and the previous three years, though older records may sometimes be accessible.

A full tax return copy is an exact replica of what was filed, including all schedules, attachments, and supporting documents. This level of detail is necessary for legal disputes, amending past filings, or proving income beyond what a transcript can confirm. Unlike transcripts, obtaining a copy requires submitting Form 4506 and paying a $43 fee per tax year. Processing can take up to 75 days, and copies are generally only available for the last six years unless a special request is made for older records.

Request Methods

The IRS offers multiple ways to obtain tax return records. Whether you prefer the convenience of an online request, the reliability of mail, or in-person assistance, each option has specific steps and processing times.

Online

Requesting tax records through the IRS website is the fastest method. The Get Transcript Online tool allows immediate access to tax return transcripts. To use this service, you must create an account through ID.me, a third-party identity verification system, by providing personal details such as your Social Security number, date of birth, and a government-issued photo ID. You may also need to verify your identity using a financial account, such as a credit card or mortgage statement.

Once logged in, you can download transcripts for the current tax year and the previous three years. If you need a tax account transcript, which includes basic return data and any IRS adjustments, this option is also available. However, full copies of tax returns cannot be obtained online. To request a complete return, you must submit Form 4506 by mail.

By Mail

For a paper request, the IRS offers two forms: Form 4506-T for transcripts and Form 4506 for full return copies. Form 4506-T is free and allows you to request a tax return transcript, tax account transcript, or wage and income transcript. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 days from the time the IRS receives your request.

To obtain a full copy of your tax return, submit Form 4506 to the appropriate IRS office listed on the form. This request requires a $43 fee per tax year, payable by check or money order to the “United States Treasury.” Processing can take up to 75 days. If you were affected by a federally declared disaster, you may qualify for a fee waiver by writing “Disaster” on the top of the form and attaching FEMA documentation.

Local Office

Visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) is an option for those who need in-person help. While you cannot obtain a full tax return copy at a TAC, you can request a transcript, which is printed on-site. Bring a government-issued ID and your Social Security number. Some locations require an appointment, which can be scheduled by calling 844-545-5640.

If you need a full return copy, a TAC representative can help you complete Form 4506, but you will still need to mail it for processing. Local offices can also assist with identity verification issues that may delay online or mail requests.

Availability of Past Records

The IRS retains tax records for varying lengths of time depending on statutory requirements and administrative needs. Tax return transcripts are generally available for the current year and the three prior years, while full return copies can typically be obtained for up to six years.

Certain circumstances, such as audits or failure to file, may extend record retention. Under 26 U.S. Code 6501, the IRS can assess tax liabilities indefinitely if a fraudulent return was filed or if no return was submitted.

For those engaged in tax disputes or legal proceedings, records may be available beyond the standard retention period through the IRS’s Historical Records Division or by submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. Though FOIA requests do not guarantee access to older documents, they can sometimes yield archived filings. Additionally, third-party entities such as mortgage lenders or payroll providers may retain copies of tax-related documents for longer periods.

Ensuring Accuracy of Your Records

Once you obtain your tax return history, verifying its accuracy is essential. Errors can arise from misreported income, incorrect deductions, or IRS processing mistakes. Identifying these early can prevent complications such as audits or penalties. Reviewing your records against original documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, or prior tax returns, ensures reported figures align with what was submitted.

If inconsistencies are found, comparing IRS transcripts with your filed return can help pinpoint whether the discrepancy originated from your submission or an IRS adjustment. If errors are detected, correcting them depends on the nature of the mistake. Minor discrepancies, such as a typo in an address, may not require action, but significant errors affecting income, deductions, or credits may necessitate filing Form 1040-X, the Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. The IRS allows amendments for up to three years from the original filing date or two years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later, under 26 U.S. Code 6511. If the issue stems from an IRS miscalculation, contacting the agency directly or visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center can help resolve the matter. Keeping thorough records of all correspondence and documentation related to corrections ensures a clear audit trail if further verification is needed.