How to Get a Copy of Your Tax Return From the IRS

The IRS keeps copies of tax returns for seven years.

If taxpayers wants a copy of their tax returns, they can use Form 4506. There is a $57 fee associated with getting a copy of tax forms. The Internal Revenue Service also allows taxpayers to get a copy of their tax transcripts for free using Form 4506-T. The processing time to obtain old tax returns is approximately 60 days. The processing time for transcripts is about two weeks.

Instructions

Form 4506

1. Gather your information. You will need your name, address, Social Security number; your spouse's name, address and Social Security number; your previous address when you last filed a tax return; the address of a third party if you are sending the tax information to a third party; and the year of the tax return you want.

2. Fill out Form 4506 with this information.

3. Write a check or money order out to the “United States Treasury” for the amount of money you entered on Line 8c of Form 4506. Be sure to include your Social Security number and "Form 4506 Request" on the check or money order.

4. Mail Form 4506 to the appropriate Internal Revenue Service location listed on Form 4506.

Form 4506-T

1. Gather your information. You will need your name, address, Social Security number; your spouse's name, address and Social Security number; your previous address when you last filed a tax return; the address of a third party if you are sending the tax information to a third party; and the year of the tax return you want.

2. Fill out Form 4506-T with this information.

3. Check the box next to "Return Transcript" on Line 6.

4. Mail Form 4506-T to the appropriate Internal Revenue Service location listed on Form 4506-T. Alternatively, call 1-800-829-1040 and use the information from Step 1 to request a transcript.

References

• IRS: Need a Copy of Your Tax Return Information?
• IRS: Form 4506
• IRS: Form 4506-T