Where Can I Get Copies of Past IRS Taxes Filed?
There are a number of scenarios that would require a taxpayer to furnish copies of previously filed income tax returns. Often, student loan offices at universities, mortgage lending companies and other corporations require a copy of tax returns as validation of income. Unfortunately, many taxpayers do not maintain copies of their own returns. Getting a duplicate copy is fairly easy.
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Significance
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There are two types of return transcripts the IRS furnishes to taxpayers. The first type is a return transcript, which contains a line by line item print out of the information contained on your return. The second is an actual copy of the return you furnished to the IRS. Most financial institutions and lenders accept the transcript as a valid substitute for an actual copy of a return.
Process
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To request copies of the return you submitted to the IRS, complete IRS form 4506, attach to it your check or money order, and mail it to the IRS office responsible for processing returns for your region. A list of mailing addresses for services centers in your area is available in the instructions for form 4506. You can get a copy of form 4506 by downloading from the IRS website or by calling (800) TAX-FORMS. To request a copy of a return transcript, complete IRS form 4506-T and mail it to the IRS.
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Cost
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The cost for an actual return is $57, while a return transcript is free of charge. If you elect to request a return copy, make your check or money order payable to the Department of Treasury.
Time Frame
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It could take up to 60 calendar days for the IRS to process your request for a return copy and two weeks for a return transcript. There are times when you may need to expedite copies of your return transcript. In these cases, you can call the IRS at (800) 829-1040 to request that the transcripts be faxed to you. For security purposes, the IRS agent will usually want to make sure that you are on a secure line before faxing the information. Copies of actual returns cannot be expedited.
Considerations
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Requests for corporate transcripts should be signed by an officer, someone designated by the board of directors or an employee on written request by a principal officer. For joint filers, transcripts may be provided to either spouse. Be sure to print your name on the form exactly as it appears on your tax return.
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