How to Look Up AGI From the Year Before

Keep copies of all your tax returns.

There are many reasons why you'd need to know your adjusted gross income (AGI) for the prior year. If you're applying for a loan or a home mortgage, the lender might ask to see your income documentation. If you need to log back into an online tax preparation service, you may need to enter your AGI to verify your identity. No matter what the reason, it's a good idea to keep copies of your tax returns and related documents handy.

Things You'll Need

• Tax return

Instructions

1. Log on to your computer and open the tax preparation software you used to prepare your return the previous year. Click "File," then "Open" and look for the PDF file of your previous year's tax return. Go to the bottom of the return to find your AGI.

2. Look up your old tax return in the file where you keep your returns and tax documents. AGI is generally at the bottom of the first page of a federal tax return, and on top of the second page. In 2010, you'll find AGI on lines 37 and 38 of IRS Form 1040, or on Line 4 of the 1040 EZ. AGI should also be found on any state or local return.

   You should keep both paper and electronic copies of your tax returns for at least the past five years.

3. Contact the accountant or tax preparer who did your return if you didn't file your taxes yourself. Let her know you need a copy of your previous year's tax return.

References

• Turbo Tax: Access 2009 or Earlier Returns