If you need an exact copy of a previously filed and processed return and all attachments (including Forms W-2), you must complete Form 4506 (PDF) , Request for Copy of Tax Return and mail it to the IRS address in the instructions along with a $23 fee (increases to $39 Jan. 1, 2004) for each tax year requested. 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 tax transcripts may be ordered, to be sent to you at your address of record, by calling (800) 829-1040 or completing and mailing Form 4506. Effective Jan. 1, 2004, use, Form 4506-T (PDF) , Request for Transcript of Tax Return. The tax return transcripts 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 (effective January 1, 2004, use Form 4506T to request all types of transcripts) 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 can also be used to get proof from the IRS that you did not file a tax return for a particular tax year (Effective Jan. 1, 2004, use Form 4506-T).

Forms can be downloaded at Forms & Pubs or ordered by calling (800) 829-1040.

References:

• Form 4506 (PDF) Request for Copy of Tax Return
• Form 4506-T (PDF) Request for Transcript of Tax Return

At the present time, it is not possible to request a copy of your return via the Internet. If you need an exact copy of a previously filed and processed Federal return, you must file Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return. In cases where an exact copy of the return is not needed, tax return and tax account transcripts may be ordered, to be sent to you at your address of record, by calling (800) 829-1040 or completing and mailing Form 4506 (Effective Jan. 1, 2004, use Form 4506-T (PDF) , Request for Transcript of Tax Return.) There is a $23 (increased to $39 January 1, 2004) fee for copies of your previously filed tax forms and all attachments (including Form(s) W-2) for each tax period requested. You should allow 60 calendar days for a response. There is no charge for tax return transcripts or Form W-2 information.

References:

• Form 4506 (PDF) Request for Copy of Tax Return
• Form 4506-T (PDF) Request for Transcript of Tax Return

At the present time, it is not possible to request a copy of your return via the Internet. If you need an exact copy of a previously filed and processed Federal return, you must file Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return. In cases where an exact copy of the return is not needed, tax return and tax account transcripts may be ordered, to be sent to you at your address of record, by calling (800) 829-1040 or completing and mailing Form 4506 (Effective Jan. 1, 2004, use Form 4506-T (PDF), Request for Transcript of Tax Return. There is a $23 fee (increased to $39 January 1, 2004) for copies of your previously filed tax forms and all attachments (including Form(s) W-2) for each tax period requested. You should allow 60 calendar days for a response. There is no charge for tax return transcripts or Forms W-2 information.

References:

• Form 4506 (PDF) Request for Copy of Tax Return
• Form 4506-T (PDF) , Request for Transcript of Tax 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) from IRS, or order W-2 information at no charge from IRS. IRS can provide W-2 information for the current and past 9 years. Complete and mail Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return and Form 4506-T (PDF) Request for Transcript of Tax Return. You should allow 60 calendar days for a response.

References:

• Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return
• Form 4506-T (PDF) Request for Transcript of Tax Return