How to Get a Copy of Last Year's Tax Return

The IRS can provide copies of last year's taxes at your request.

If you have misplaced your copy of last year's federal tax return or never made a copy, it is a simple matter to obtain one from the Internal Revenue Service, IRS. Just follow a few easy steps and you will promptly receive the information you need.

Instructions

1. Complete Form 4506, "Request for Copy of Tax Return," and mail to the IRS at the proper address on the form. This is the process if you are wanting an exact copy of last year's tax return, including all attachments. Include a check of $57 for each year requested. The records are usually available for only the past six years.

2. Complete Form 4506-T or call 800-829-1040 if you just need a tax transcript of last year's tax return instead of exact copies. There is no charge for the transcript, which is usually acceptable documentation for lending institutions for mortgage verification purposes. It takes the IRS about 10 business days to get you a transcript from the time it receives your paperwork. Tax return transcripts are usually only available for the past three years. Form 4506-T can also be used to obtain proof you did not file a tax return for a particular year.

3. Request a "Tax Account Transcript" if you need a statement of your tax account showing changes that you or the IRS made after the original return was filed. A tax account transcript shows basic data including marital status, type of return filed, adjusted gross income, taxable income, payments and adjustments made on your account. This is also only available for the past three years.

4. Download the forms at IRS.gov/forms/pubs or call 800-829-3676.

References

• IRS: Order Copies or Transcripts of Tax Returns