How to Get Copies of Past Tax Returns
Income tax records are available from the IRS for past years. You can order a copy of your tax return from any previous year for any necessary purpose.
Federal tax documents are often used as income records by offices providing financial aid. Programs assisting college students, indigent patients and families in need of help paying utilities will often ask for a previous year's tax return to qualify a candidate. Certain legal cases may also require documents for taxes.
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Instructions
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Download Form 4506 from the IRS website. A link to the form is provided in the Resources section below.
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Fill out the form using the computer keyboard. Include all requested personal information and the years of all tax return copies desired. Each form can be used for up to eight federal tax return copies. Use an additional form if you need copies of more than eight previous returns.
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Print the completed form and mail it to the appropriate IRS records office along with a check or money order payable to "United States Treasury" to cover the fees. Write your Social Security number or Employer Identification number on the check or money order with the phrase "Form 4506 Request." Use the list of states and corresponding offices to find the appropriate address. Allow 60 days for delivery of your tax return copies.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the abbreviated transcript of federal tax records whenever it's acceptable. A free transcript can be ordered from the IRS by mail, phone or fax, and it arrives within two weeks.
