How Do I Get Copies of Old Tax Returns? | FAQ
After tax season, one of the most frequent requests we receive from clients is for copies of their previous year's tax returns. People often need an old tax return for various reasons, such as income verification, handling an IRS audit, or amending a tax return. Unfortunately, many forget where they stored their tax return, shred them, or put them away in storage so it isn’t easily accessible. This post provides three ways to access old tax returns if you need them.
Reasons you may need an old tax return
First of all, let’s go over common reasons you may need a copy of old tax returns:
Buying or refinancing a home
Getting a loan
Applying for federal student aid through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
In the case of an IRS audit
When filing a current-year tax return
When filing an amended tax return
When requesting a copy of your tax return, it’s important to clarify exactly what information is needed. Some parties may only need income details, while others might require the full tax return.
Option 1: Get a copy from your tax preparer or tax software provider
The most straightforward method is to contact your tax preparer or log into the tax software you used to file.
At Northside Tax Service, we securely store all of our client’s tax documents which clients which are available by request at no charge with proof of identification. Clients can access their documents via our secure online portal or pick up a printed copy from our office.
If you filed through tax software such as Turbo Tax, you should be able to find your previously filed tax returns by logging into your account and viewing your documents folder. However, some software providers may charge a fee or limit access to older returns beyond a certain number of years.
Option 2: Get a tax return transcript from the IRS
In some situations, you may not need a complete copy of your tax return. Instead, you can request a tax return transcript, which is a simplified version of your return, directly from the IRS for free.
A tax return transcript includes most line items on your original tax return, but will not show changes if you have amended your tax return. You can request up to three years back. Additionally, personally identifiable information is hidden such as parts of your Social Security Number, account and telephone numbers, names, and addresses.
There are several ways to request a tax return transcript from the IRS:
Access transcripts instantly online through your IRS Individual Online Account.
Submit the IRS Get Transcript by Mail form online and a transcript will be mailed in 5-10 calendar days.
Call the IRS automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946 and a transcript will be mailed in 5-10 calendar days.
Mail IRS Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. Processing time may vary.
Option 3: Request a copy from the IRS
If the other two options are not available or not sufficient, you can request a complete copy of tax returns up to seven years old from the IRS. This can be done by mailing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. There is a $43 fee for each copy and it may take up to 75 days to process your request.
How Long Should I Keep a Tax Return?
Once you have your tax return, you might wonder how long you should keep it on file. The IRS typically recommends keeping tax returns for at least three years. However, there are some cases you may need to refer to tax returns up to 7 years old. To avoid a future scavenger hunt, be sure to store copies of your returns in a safe and easily accessible place.
