How to Get a Copy of Last Year’s Tax Return

If you need a copy of a past tax return for a loan application, financial aid, or personal record-keeping, several methods are available. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers various ways to access your tax information, from quick online options to more formal requests for complete return copies.

Obtaining Tax Transcripts from the IRS

Tax transcripts offer a summary of your tax return information or account activity, providing essential details without being an exact copy of your filed return. The IRS provides several types of transcripts:
Tax Return Transcript: Shows most line items from your original Form 1040-series return.
Tax Account Transcript: Details basic data and any changes made after filing.
Record of Account Transcript: Combines elements of both.
Wage and Income Transcript: Displays data from information returns like Forms W-2 and 1099.

For immediate access, the “Get Transcript Online” tool on IRS.gov is the fastest method. To use this service, you must verify your identity by providing personal information such as your Social Security Number, date of birth, filing status, and the mailing address from your most recent tax return. Online verification may also require a financial account number or a mobile phone. Once verified, you can view, print, or download your transcript instantly.

If online access is not feasible, you can request transcripts by mail using Form 4506-T, “Request for Transcript of Tax Return.” This form requires you to specify the type of transcript needed and the relevant tax year(s). Mail the completed and signed form to the appropriate IRS address listed in the instructions. Mailed requests generally take about 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery.

Another option for obtaining transcripts is by phone through the IRS automated system at 800-908-9946. You will need to provide your Social Security Number and the street address associated with your tax return. Transcripts requested by phone are also sent by mail and typically arrive within 5 to 10 calendar days. All types of transcripts obtained directly from the IRS are provided free of charge.

Requesting a Complete Tax Return Copy from the IRS

A full copy of your tax return may be necessary for specific loan applications or when detailed line-by-line information beyond what a transcript provides is required. Unlike transcripts, which are summaries, a complete copy includes all forms and schedules as originally filed. This formal request is handled through IRS Form 4506, “Request for Copy of Tax Return.”

When filling out Form 4506, you will need to indicate the specific tax year(s) for which you need copies. This form requires careful completion of personal information, including your name, Social Security Number, and current address. Ensure all details match what the IRS has on file to avoid processing delays.

There is a fee associated with requesting a complete copy of your tax return, typically $43 to $50 per tax year requested. Processing times for Form 4506 are significantly longer than for transcripts, often taking up to 60 to 75 calendar days to receive the copies by mail. It is advisable to confirm whether a full copy is truly necessary or if a free tax transcript would suffice for your needs.

Retrieving Your Tax Return Through Other Channels

Beyond direct requests to the IRS, several alternative channels exist for retrieving copies of your past tax returns, offering more immediate or convenient solutions.

If you used commercial tax preparation software to file your returns, you can often access and download copies directly from your account. Most major software providers allow users to log into their online portals to view and print past tax documents.

For those who utilized a professional tax preparer, contacting them directly is a practical option. Tax preparers are generally required to retain copies of client returns for a certain period. While many preparers provide copies free of charge, some may levy a small administrative fee for this service.

Checking your personal records can be an effective method for locating past tax returns. This includes reviewing physical files or digital storage locations like computer backups, external hard drives, or cloud services. If you filed electronically, look for email attachments from your tax software or preparer, as these often contain PDF copies of your completed returns.