How to Look Up Your Tax Return From Last Year
Learn how to access last year’s tax return using online tools, mail requests, or e-filing services, and understand the difference between transcripts and full copies.
Filing taxes often requires reviewing past returns to verify information, apply for a loan, or correct mistakes. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to access last year’s tax return, depending on how it was filed and what details are needed.
Digital options provide quick access, while mail requests are available for those who need physical copies. Understanding the difference between transcripts and full copies helps determine the best approach.
Online Government Portal
The IRS offers a secure online portal where taxpayers can access past tax records, including transcripts of previous returns. Using the Get Transcript Online tool, individuals can retrieve a tax transcript almost instantly after verifying their identity with a Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and a registered phone number or financial account.
The Tax Return Transcript is the most commonly requested and includes key details from the original return, such as adjusted gross income (AGI). This is often required for loan applications or future tax filings. The Tax Account Transcript provides additional data, including any changes made after filing, such as penalties or adjustments.
Some taxpayers may face difficulties accessing records online due to identity verification issues. In such cases, they may need to request a transcript by mail or verify their identity with an IRS representative. While the online portal is the fastest option, it requires up-to-date personal information and access to verification tools.
Request by Mail
For those unable to retrieve tax records online, requesting a copy by mail is a slower but viable alternative.
To obtain a transcript, taxpayers must complete Form 4506-T and send it to the appropriate IRS address based on their state of residence. Processing typically takes five to ten calendar days. Transcripts are free and sufficient for most verification needs, such as income validation for mortgage applications.
If a full copy of a tax return, including attachments like W-2s and 1099s, is needed, taxpayers must submit Form 4506 instead. This request carries a $43 fee per return and can take up to 75 calendar days to process. Full copies are often required for legal matters, such as visa applications or tax disputes. However, those who filed electronically through a tax preparation service may find it faster to check with their preparer before paying the IRS for a copy.
E-Filing Service Archives
Taxpayers who filed electronically may be able to retrieve past returns directly from their e-filing service. Many platforms, such as TurboTax, H&R Block, and TaxAct, store filed tax returns for several years. Some offer free access, while others may charge a retrieval fee.
Logging into the original e-filing account is often the fastest way to obtain a full copy of a past return. Most platforms allow users to download and print previously filed returns in PDF format. If the account is inaccessible due to forgotten credentials or inactivity, customer support may be needed to retrieve the return.
Some e-filing services delete older tax records after a set period, typically three to seven years. If records are no longer available, taxpayers may need to request copies from their tax preparer or use other retrieval methods. To avoid future issues, individuals who file electronically should download and store their returns securely each year.
Transcript vs Full Copy
Deciding between a tax transcript and a full copy depends on the purpose of the request. A tax transcript provides a summary of key financial figures, making it useful for verifying income, reconciling discrepancies, or responding to IRS inquiries. However, transcripts exclude detailed supporting documents, which may be necessary for legal proceedings, visa applications, or financial audits.
Lenders and government agencies often accept transcripts as proof of income, particularly the Tax Return Transcript, which includes AGI, taxable income, and payment history. However, for financial disputes or tax audits requiring complete records, a full copy of the return, including all schedules and worksheets, is typically necessary. For example, a business owner undergoing a tax audit would need every submitted form and supporting documentation to substantiate deductions and expenses.