How to Retrieve My 1040 Tax Form

There are many situations where you will need to have copies of old tax returns.

There are many situations where you will need to have copies of old tax returns: mortgage loan applications, bankruptcy proceedings, proof of income and audits. You will need to obtain copies of your 1040 tax forms in order to provide this documentation. The method you use to obtain this documentation will depend on the method used to file your tax returns.

Instructions

1. Contact your accountant. Individuals who have their taxes prepared by an accountant or tax preparation service can contact that agency to request a copy of their return.

2. Contact the website you used to electronically file your return. Individuals who file their tax return online can print a copy from the website that did the filing. Log in to your account using the user name and password you created when you registered for the site. Click on the option to print previous tax returns.

3. Contact the Internal Revenue Service. Fill out form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return via the IRS website (see Reference). Provide your Social Security number, name, type of tax return that was filed and the year of the return.

4. Pay the fee. There is a fee for each tax return that is requested. This fee is listed on the 4506 form. This fee must be paid when the form is submitted.

5. Mail or fax the form. The second sheet of the form provides mailing addresses and fax numbers. This information will vary based on the type of return you are requesting and your geographical location.

6. Call the IRS automated self help system to request a copy by phone at 1-800-829-1040. Provide the operator with your identifying information and tell them you want to request a copy of your 1040 tax form.

7. Contact the IRS after 60 calendar days if your request has not been processed.

Tips & Warnings

• Find out if a tax return transcript is sufficient documentation. The IRS will provide this documentation free of charge. Fill out the 4506-T to request a transcript.

References

• IRS: Need a Copy of Your Tax Return Information?