How to Get a Copy of Past Income Tax Filings
There may be several reasons to need copies of your tax return. You may need copies to obtain a mortgage or start a business. You can attempt to try and contact your tax preparer and to obtain a copy, but she may have closed, lost your tax return, or doesn't provide copies after a certain amount of time has passed. There are other options that you can use to get copies of your tax return. Follow these easy guidelines to get a copy or transcript of your past tax returns.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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Download form 4506-T for a transcript of your tax return. A transcript will give information on line items of your tax return including all forms and schedules that were processed with your original tax return. The form is a fill in form, and can be filled out before printing.
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Download form 4506 for a photocopy of your tax return. Complete the form as instructed. This form also allows you to complete the form on your computer before printing.
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Fill out the necessary form. Follow the directions provided with the form. You will need the Social Security number of the joint applicant. If you want copies sent to another person or a company you will need name, address and telephone number of the third party receiving the documents. You can request copies or transcripts of returns filed in the past six years.
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Print, sign and date the document. Only one signature is needed for a joint tax return, partnerships and any legal authority for corporations. For a partnership, the person must have been part of the partnership during any part of the tax period the forms are requested for.
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Prepare a check or money order. The IRS charges $57 for a photocopy of your tax return. The transcripts are provided free of charge. The money order or check should be made payable to the "United States Treasury." The check must have your Social Security number or employee identification number and which form is being requested, such as "Form 4506-T Request."
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Mail the form you prepared to the appropriate IRS location. Include the check or money order with form 4506. Mail the form within 60 days from the date it is signed if the transcript or copy is being forwarded to a third party. Individual returns have five locations that handle several states. All other returns have two locations to choose from. Send your request to the location your state is under. It may take up to 10 days for a transcript and up to 60 days for a photocopy.
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Tips & Warnings
Visit an IRS office or call the IRS to obtain a transcript quicker.
Sign your name with the name that appears exactly on the original return with your current name if changed.
Do not sign form 4506 if a third party requires you to fill out the form, and lines 6 and 7 are blank or the 4506-T form and lines 6 and 9 are blank.
