How to Request a Transcript or Copy of a Tax Return Form IRS?

How to Request a Transcript or Copy of a Tax Return Form IRS?

Transcript of a tax return

An individual taxpayer may request a free transcript of their original Form 1040-series tax return at the IRS website here or by using the IRS's automated phone transcript service at 800.908.9946.

The tax return transcript shows most line items on the original Form 1040 along with any forms and schedules, and it usually meets the needs of lending institutions when applying for a mortgage or student loan.

The transcript doesn't show any payments, penalty assessments, or adjustments made to the original return. The IRS can provide a transcript of the current year's return and returns filed in the three prior years, and the IRS indicates that it processes most transcript requests within 10 days.

For fax or mailing purposes, there are two transcript request forms:

  • Form 4506T-EZ, Short Form Request for Individual Tax Return Transcript can be used by an individual taxpayer to request a transcript of their Form 1040 and related forms and schedules.
  • Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return can be used to request a return transcript as well as a Record of Account (payments, penalty assessments, or adjustments made to the original return), Verification of Nonfiling, and a transcript of source documents such as W-2s and 1099s.
Note: Form 4506-T is also used by a corporation, a partnership, or an estate or trust to obtain a transcript. See the form instructions for filing requirements.

Copy of a tax return

A transcript is different than a photocopy. A photocopy of a return is requested using Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. Copies can be requested going back seven years. The IRS charges a nominal fee per return and indicates that up to 2-1/2 months may be required to process the request.


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