IRS Procedures > Copies & Transcripts

Previous Page: IRS Procedures > Collection Procedural Questions

Next Page: IRS Procedures > Extensions
Use

to find additional instances of index items.

Frequently Asked Tax Questions

IRS Procedures - Copies & Transcripts

Rev. date: 1/2009

How do I request a copy of my tax return for last year?

Copy of Return
Request for Copy of Tax Return
Request for Transcript of Tax Return

If you need an exact copy of a previously filed and processed return and all attachments (including Form W-2 (PDF)), you must complete Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return, and mail it to the IRS.

Use the address provided in the instructions to the form.
Submit a check or money order for $57, per tax year, made payable to the "United States Treasury."
Copies are generally available for returns filed in the current and past 6 years.

In cases where an exact copy of the return is not needed, tax return and transcripts may be ordered.

The tax return transcript shows most line items contained on the return as it was originally filed, including any accompanying forms and schedules.
In most cases, a tax return transcript will meet the requirements for lending institutions for mortgage verification purposes.
The transcript can be ordered by completing a Form 4506-T (PDF) or calling 800-829-1040 and following the prompts in the recorded message.
There is no charge for the transcript and you should receive it in 10 business days from the time we receive your request.
Tax return transcripts are generally available for the current and past three years.

If you need a statement of your tax account which shows changes that you or the IRS made after the original return was filed, you must request a "Tax Account Transcript."

This transcript shows basic data including marital status, type of return filed, adjusted gross income, taxable income, payments and adjustments made on your account.
Tax return and account transcripts are generally available for the current and past 3 years.

Form 4506-T (PDF) can also be used to get proof from the IRS that you did not file a tax return for a particular tax year.

Forms can be downloaded at irs.gov/forms/pubs or ordered by calling 800-829-3676.

Rev. date: 1/2009

Can I get copies of my prior year Forms W-2 from the IRS?

Copy of Return

The quickest way to obtain a copy of a prior year Form W-2 (PDF) is through your employer.

If that is not possible, you can order and pay for copies of your entire return (attachments include Form W-2 (PDF)) from IRS, or
Order Form W-2 (PDF) information at no charge from the IRS.
The IRS can provide Form W-2 (PDF) information for up to 10 years.
Information for the current year is generally not available until the year after it is filed with the IRS. For example, Form W-2 (PDF) information for 2007, filed in 2008, will not be available from IRS until 2009.

To receive a copy of your return, complete and mail Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return.

To receive a tax return transcript, complete and mail Form 4506-T (PDF), Request for Transcript of Tax Return.

You should allow 60 calendar days for a response.


Previous Page: IRS Procedures > Collection Procedural Questions Next Page: IRS Procedures > Extensions Use to find additional instances of index items.