How to Get Copies of Your Old Tax Returns

Where to request old tax returns

The IRS keeps a record of every tax return you file. If you need a copy of a return from a prior year, you can request it directly from the IRS using Form 4506-C, or you can order a transcript instead, which is often faster and costs nothing.

You have three main routes: order online through the IRS website, call the IRS, or mail a paper form. The online route is the fastest — you can request and receive a transcript the same day if you use the IRS's Get Transcript tool. Phone requests take about two weeks. Paper forms take four to eight weeks by mail.

If you filed your return through a tax preparer or accountant, they may have a copy on file and can send it to you directly, which is often the quickest option if you remember who prepared it.

Key Takeaways

The IRS Get Transcript tool lets you download a transcript of your return the same day, at no cost, if you can verify your identity online.
Form 4506-C requests an actual copy of your filed return and costs $57 per return, taking four to eight weeks by mail.
A transcript shows the key numbers from your return (income, filing status, deductions) but is not the full return itself.
Your tax preparer or accountant may have a copy and can often send it faster than the IRS.
The IRS can retrieve returns going back at least seven years; older returns may require a records search with additional fees.

Transcript versus full return copy

A transcript is a summary of your return created by the IRS. It shows your filing status, income, deductions, credits, and tax paid, but it is not the actual return you signed. Most lenders, employers, and government programs accept a transcript when they need proof of income or tax filing. Transcripts are free and arrive within one to three business days online or by mail.

A full return copy is the actual document you filed, with all schedules and attachments. You need this if you are applying for a mortgage, if you are disputing something with the IRS, or if a lender specifically asks for the "full return." Full copies cost $57 each and take four to eight weeks by mail.

Start by asking whoever is requesting the document whether they will accept a transcript. If they will, order a transcript — it is free and faster. If they need the full return, you will have to pay and wait longer.

How to order a transcript online

Go to irs.gov/transcripts and select "Get Transcript Online." You will need to verify your identity using one of these methods: a Social Security number and date of birth plus an address on file with the IRS, a credit card or bank account, or an IRS online account (which you can create at irs.gov).

Once you log in, you can choose which year's return you want and which type of transcript: Account Transcript (shows all activity on your account), Record of Account (shows your return and any IRS changes), or Verification of Non-filing (proves you did not file that year). Most people need the Account Transcript or Record of Account.

You can download the transcript immediately as a PDF or have it mailed to you. If you download it, you have it in minutes. If you request it by mail, it arrives in five to ten business days.

Ordering by phone or mail

To order by phone, call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready. Tell them which year you need and whether you want a transcript or a full return copy. They will mail it to you in about two weeks.

To order by mail, fill out Form 4506-T (for a transcript, free) or Form 4506-C (for a full return copy, $57 per return). Mail the form to the IRS address listed on the form itself — it varies by state. Include a check or money order if you are ordering a full return. The IRS will mail your copy back in four to eight weeks.

You can find both forms at irs.gov. Print the form, sign it, and mail it with your payment if required. Keep a copy for your records.

Getting returns from your tax preparer

If you used a CPA, tax attorney, or tax preparation service (like H&R Block or a local tax office), they may have your return on file. Call or email them and ask for a copy. Many will email it to you within a day or two, which is much faster than waiting for the IRS.

You may be charged a small fee for retrieval — typically $10 to $25 — but this is often faster and cheaper than ordering from the IRS. If you no longer remember who prepared your return, you can check your bank or credit card statements from the year you filed to see if there is a charge from a tax preparer.

If your preparer has gone out of business or you cannot reach them, you will need to order from the IRS instead.

Returns older than seven years

The IRS routinely keeps returns for at least seven years. If you need a return older than that, the IRS can still search for it, but it requires a formal request and may take longer. You will need to call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 or mail Form 4506-C with a note explaining that the return is more than seven years old.

The IRS charges a fee for records searches on very old returns — usually $43 to $57 — and the search can take several weeks. If the IRS cannot locate the return, you may not be able to get a copy, though you can ask the IRS to provide a letter stating that the return cannot be found.

What to do if you never filed

If you did not file a return for a particular year but now need proof of that, you can request a Verification of Non-filing from the IRS. This is a letter stating that the IRS has no record of a return filed under your name for that year. It is free and takes about two weeks by mail.

Order it the same way you would order a transcript: online at irs.gov/transcripts, by phone at 1-800-908-9946, or by mail using Form 4506-T. Some lenders and employers will accept this letter as proof that you did not file.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to get an old tax return?

A transcript is free. A full return copy costs $57 per return if you order it from the IRS. Your tax preparer may charge $10 to $25 to send you a copy from their files. The IRS may charge $43 to $57 for a records search if your return is more than seven years old.

Can I get someone else's tax return?

No. The IRS will only release a return to the person who filed it, their spouse (if it was a joint return), or someone with a power of attorney. You will need to prove your identity and sign the request form. If you need a return for a deceased person, you will need to provide a death certificate and proof that you are the executor or beneficiary.

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

This usually means the return was never received or was filed under a different name or Social Security number. Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 to verify your filing history. If you believe you filed and the IRS has no record, you may need to file an amended return or contact a tax professional to help locate the original.

How long does it take to get a transcript by mail?

Five to ten business days if you order online and request mail delivery. Two weeks if you order by phone. Four to eight weeks if you mail a paper form to the IRS. Online download is immediate.

Do I need the full return or will a transcript work?

Ask whoever is requesting the document. Most lenders, employers, and government programs accept a transcript. Mortgage lenders sometimes ask for the full return. If you are unsure, start with a transcript — it is free and faster, and you can always order the full return later if they reject it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.