How to File Without an AGI

When signing the current year's tax form electronically your tax software will commonly ask for the adjusted gross income (AGI) from the previous year. Entering this number verifies that you're authorized to file the return electronically. However, if you can't find your previous year's return at the moment, it is sometimes possible to file without the adjusted gross income figure handy.

Instructions

1. Recall the five-digit prior year's personal identification number (PIN) you entered on your taxes for the previous year. This is the PIN you enter toward the end of the tax return before signing and filing the form.

2. Enter this PIN number in the space provided at the end of the e-file form instead of the adjusted gross income figure. If you cannot remember the PIN from the previous year, use the IRS Electronic Filing PIN Request tool to generate a self-selected PIN to use instead. You must provide your social security information, name, filing status, date of birth, mailing address and verify other details to get a new PIN.

3. Submit the return electronically and wait for the e-filing process to complete. If the return information and PIN entered is correct, you'll receive an acceptance notification via email or mail.

Tips & Warnings

• You can retrieve your AGI for the previous year by submitting form 4506T. However, it might take some time to receive the return transcript in the mail or via fax.

References

• IRS.gov: Self-Select PIN Method for e-file
• TaxACT; Help Topic; AGI, Self-Select PIN and Electronic Signature

Resources

• IRS.gov: Electronic Filing PIN Request
• IRS.gov: Need a Copy of Your Tax Return Information?