Where to request your tax return

The IRS keeps a copy of every tax return you file. You can request yours through three main routes: the IRS website (fastest), by phone, or by mail. Which one works depends on how soon you need it and whether you have an IRS account set up.

The IRS does not mail paper copies of returns anymore. Instead, they send you a transcript — a document that shows the same information in a different format. A transcript is usually what you actually need: banks, landlords, and loan officers accept transcripts as proof of income. If you filed electronically, the IRS has your return on file and can produce a transcript within one business day online.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS sends transcripts, not copies of your original return form, but transcripts show all the same information and are accepted by banks and landlords.
  • If you have an IRS online account, you can download a transcript immediately at no cost through IRS.gov.
  • By phone, you can request a transcript and have it mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days by calling 1-800-908-9946.
  • If you filed on paper, the IRS may take longer to locate and process your request, so allow extra time.
  • You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and the tax year you are requesting.

Requesting online through IRS.gov

The fastest way is to create or log into your IRS online account at IRS.gov. Once you are logged in, go to the "Transcripts" section and select "Get Transcript Online." You can view and download your transcript immediately — no waiting, no fee.

To create an account, you will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing address, and a phone number or email. The IRS will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by sending a code to your phone. Once verified, you can download transcripts for any year you have filed.

The transcript you download is a PDF. It shows your income, deductions, credits, and tax paid — everything a landlord or lender needs to see. Print it or send it directly from your email. There is no expiration date on a transcript, though some organizations may ask for one from the current or prior year.

Requesting by phone

Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the tax year ready. Tell the representative you want a transcript mailed to you.

The IRS will mail the transcript to the address on file with your return. Delivery takes 5 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, ask the representative if they can email it to you instead — some offices can do this, though it depends on your situation and the year you are requesting.

If you filed jointly, both spouses can request a transcript, but only the person whose name appears first on the return can request one for the household. If you need a transcript for a return filed by someone else, that person must request it themselves or give you written permission.

Requesting by mail

Fill out Form 4506-C (Request for Transcript of Tax Return) or Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return). Form 4506-C is faster and costs nothing. Form 4506 requests an actual photocopy of your filed return and costs $50 per copy, so use it only if a transcript will not work.

Mail the form to the IRS address for your state. You can find the correct address on the form itself or on IRS.gov. Include your Social Security number, the tax year, and your current mailing address. The IRS will mail the transcript or copy to you within 30 days, though it often arrives sooner.

Keep a copy of the form for your records. If you are requesting multiple years, you can list them all on one form. Sign and date the form — an unsigned form will be returned.

What if you filed on paper

If you mailed a paper return instead of filing electronically, the IRS takes longer to process your request. They have to locate your physical return in their files before they can produce a transcript. Allow 4 to 6 weeks instead of the usual 5 to 10 business days.

Paper returns filed more than 10 years ago may be difficult to locate. If the IRS cannot find your return, they will send you a letter explaining why. In that case, you may need to contact a tax professional or the IRS directly to reconstruct your filing history.

What if you need it urgently

If you need a transcript today or tomorrow, the online method is your only option. Download it through your IRS account and use it immediately. Most organizations will accept a digital copy or a printout.

If you do not have an IRS account yet and cannot create one in time, call 1-800-908-9946 and ask if the representative can email a transcript to you. Some offices can send it electronically the same day, though this is not may provide. Be prepared to wait on hold.

If neither of those works, ask the organization requesting the transcript (your landlord, bank, or lender) whether they will accept a tax return you prepared yourself, a copy from your tax software, or a letter from your tax preparer stating your income. Many will, as a temporary measure while you wait for the official transcript.

What transcript type to request

The IRS offers several transcript types. For most purposes — proving income to a landlord, bank, or lender — request an "Account Transcript" or "Tax Return Transcript." Both show your income and tax information. An Account Transcript is simpler and faster.

Request a "Verification of Non-Filing" if you need to prove you did not file in a particular year. Request a "Record of Account" only if a tax professional or the IRS specifically asks for it.

When you request online or by phone, the IRS will ask which type you need. If you are not sure, tell them who is asking for it — the representative can recommend the right type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a transcript for someone else's return?

No, unless you have power of attorney or the person signs a form authorizing you. The IRS will only release a transcript to the person whose name is on the return. If you are a spouse on a joint return, you can request your own copy. If you are a tax preparer or accountant, you need a signed Form 8821 from the taxpayer.

Do I need to pay for a transcript?

No. Transcripts are free when you request them online or by phone. Form 4506-C (transcript request by mail) is also free. Form 4506 (photocopy of your actual return) costs $50 per copy.

What if the IRS says they have no record of my return?

This usually means the return has not been processed yet or was filed under a different name or Social Security number. If you filed recently, wait a few weeks and try again. If you filed years ago, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 with your filing details so they can search manually.

Can I use a transcript from last year, or do I need a current one?

Most organizations will accept a transcript from the current or prior tax year. Some lenders or government programs may ask for the most recent year. Ask whoever is requesting it before you order — you may not need a new one.

How long does a transcript stay valid?

Transcripts do not expire, but organizations often request one from a specific year. A transcript from 2023 will always show your 2023 income, but a landlord in 2024 may ask for your 2024 transcript instead to confirm current income.