Where Can You Find Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)?

Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is a foundational metric in personal finance, representing your total income from all taxable sources minus specific deductions allowed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This figure provides a clear picture of your income after certain adjustments, such as contributions to traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) or student loan interest payments. AGI serves as the starting point for calculating your tax liability, playing a significant role in determining your eligibility for various tax credits, deductions, and even certain financial aid programs.

Locating AGI on Your Tax Forms

The most common method for finding your Adjusted Gross Income is directly on your federal income tax return. For the 2023 tax year, your AGI is specifically located on Line 11 of Form 1040, the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This line is typically found near the bottom of the first page of the form, providing a quick reference point.

It is important to review the specific tax year’s version of Form 1040, as line numbers can occasionally change from one year to the next. While many state tax forms may also reference your federal AGI, the federal Form 1040 is the primary document to consult for this information. Your AGI from the prior year’s return is also often used as a verification method when electronically filing your current year’s taxes.

Obtaining AGI Through IRS Services

If you do not have a copy of your filed tax return, the Internal Revenue Service offers official channels to retrieve your Adjusted Gross Income. The IRS “Get Transcript” service is a widely used option, allowing individuals to access various tax records online or by mail. To obtain your AGI, you should specifically request the “Tax Return Transcript,” which provides most of the line items from your original return, including the AGI.

Accessing this service online generally requires identity verification, often involving an ID.me account. Alternatively, you can request a transcript be mailed to you, which typically takes 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery. Additionally, individuals with an IRS online account can view key data from their most recently filed tax return, including their AGI, directly through their account. This online account provides immediate access to your tax records after successful login and identity verification.

Using Tax Software or Professional Services to Find AGI

For those who utilized tax preparation software to file their returns, the Adjusted Gross Income figure is typically accessible within the software program itself. You can usually log in to your account or access your saved return to view or download a copy of the Form 1040, where AGI will be clearly displayed. Most tax software platforms allow you to navigate to a summary or main form view to locate this detail.

If a professional tax preparer assisted with your filing, they will retain a copy of your complete tax return. In such cases, the most direct approach is to contact your tax preparer directly. They can provide you with the AGI from your filed return.