How to Obtain a Copy of Lost 1040 Taxes
Your tax return records are important financial documents. You may need copies of your 1040 tax forms for a home loan, a job background check, for financial planning or during a tax audit. If your copy of a 1040 is misplaced or destroyed, you can have the Internal Revenue Service provide you with a copy of your form or a transcript of the information you originally provided.
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Instructions
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Request a Copy
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Download a copy of Internal Revenue Service Form 4506, "Request for Copy of Tax Return," if you need an actual photocopy of the 1040 form that you filed.
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Print a copy of Form 4506 and fill in the requested information. You can use a single form to request one or more years of tax records. Returns are generally available for the current year and six prior years. For jointly filed returns, only one spouse's signature is required.
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Include a check for the required amount. As of the time of publication, the fee is $57 for each year for which you request a copy of a 1040.
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Send the completed form to address indicated on the form's instructions. The correct address depends on the state in which you live. Allow 60 days to receive your 1040 copy from the IRS.
Request a Transcript
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Use the IRS's online "Request a Transcript" feature to request a computer printout of the information you submitted on your 1040.
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Provide the required information, including your identification, Social Security number, address and the year or years for which you need transcript information. Transcripts are generally available for the current year's return and three prior years.
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Allow 10 days to receive your transcript in the mail. There is no fee for the transcript service.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also request a transcript by calling the IRS at 1-800-908-9946.
