How to Get Copies of Your Previous Tax Returns

Where to request your old tax returns

The IRS keeps records of tax returns you filed for the past three years in their system and can send you a transcript or a copy of the actual return. If you need returns older than three years, the IRS may still have them, but you will need to request them by mail. You can also contact the tax professional or software company that prepared your return if you have that information — they often keep copies on file.

The fastest way to get a transcript (a summary of your return information) is through the IRS website at irs.gov. A transcript shows your filing status, income, deductions, and tax paid, but it is not the actual return form you signed. If you need the actual return with your signature and all schedules attached, you must request a copy of the return itself, which takes longer.

State tax agencies also keep copies of state returns you filed. Each state has its own process, usually through the state department of revenue or taxation website. Some states offer online retrieval for recent years, while others require a written request by mail.

Key Takeaways

The IRS can provide transcripts online through irs.gov within minutes, or you can request them by phone at 1-800-908-9946 or by mail using Form 4506-C.
A transcript shows your tax information but is not your actual signed return; request Form 4506 if you need the complete return document itself.
The IRS keeps records for at least three years, and sometimes longer, but requests for returns older than three years must be made by mail.
Your tax preparer or software company may have copies of returns they prepared, which is often faster than requesting from the IRS.
State tax returns are requested separately through your state's department of revenue or taxation website.

Getting a transcript online through the IRS

The IRS offers a tool called Get Transcript Online at irs.gov that lets you view and read transcripts when ready without waiting. You will need to create or log into an IRS account using your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and either a credit card or bank account number for verification. The process takes about 10 minutes.

Once you are logged in, you can choose which year's transcript you want and which type. The most common is the Account Transcript, which shows your filing status, income, deductions, credits, and tax liability. The Record of Account Transcript includes the same information plus any changes the IRS made to your return after you filed it. You can read the transcript as a PDF when ready and print it or save it.

This method works only if you have filed a return with the IRS. If you did not file in a particular year, no transcript will be available for that year.

Requesting a transcript by phone or mail

If you cannot or prefer not to create an IRS account, you can request a transcript by phone at 1-800-908-9946. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and the tax year you need ready. The IRS will mail the transcript to the address on file, which usually takes 5 to 10 business days.

For a written request, use Form 4506-C (Request for Transcript of Tax Return). Fill out the form with your name, Social Security number, address, and the tax years you need. Mail it to the IRS address listed on the form — the address varies by state. Processing time is typically 5 to 10 business days after the IRS receives it. You can also fax the form to the IRS fax number shown on the form itself.

Keep a copy of Form 4506-C for your records. The IRS charges a small fee for transcripts requested by mail or phone, though online transcripts are free.

Getting your actual return instead of a transcript

If you need the complete return document with your signature and all attached schedules (not just a summary transcript), you must request a copy of the return using Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return). This is different from Form 4506-C and takes longer to process — usually 30 to 60 days.

Fill out Form 4506 with your name, Social Security number, address, and the tax years you need. Mail it to the IRS address for your state, or fax it to the fax number on the form. The IRS will mail the actual return pages to you. There is a fee for each return copy requested.

You cannot request a copy of a return online; this must be done by mail or fax. If you need the return urgently, ask your tax preparer or the software company that prepared it — they may have a copy they can send you much faster.

Contacting your tax preparer or software company

If a tax professional prepared your return, they are required to keep a copy for at least three years. Call or email the tax preparer's office and ask for a copy of your return for the year you need. Many can email or print it the same day. If you used tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct, you can often log into your account and read your return directly from their website.

This is often the fastest option because you do not have to wait for the IRS to process your request. The tax preparer may charge a small fee for retrieving and sending the copy, but it is usually less than the IRS fee and arrives much faster.

Requesting state tax returns

Each state handles requests for old tax returns differently. Most states allow you to request transcripts or copies through their department of revenue or taxation website. Some states offer online retrieval similar to the IRS, while others require you to call or mail a written request.

To find your state's process, search "[your state] department of revenue" or "[your state] tax return copy" online. You will typically need your Social Security number, filing status, and the tax year. Some states charge a fee; others do not. Processing time varies from same-day (if online) to 2 to 4 weeks (if by mail).

If you filed a state return with a tax preparer, they may also have a copy of your state return on file and can send it to you.

What to do if the IRS has no record of your return

If you request a transcript and the IRS says they have no record of a return for that year, it means either you did not file that year or the return was not processed into their system. If you believe you filed, check whether you have a copy at home — look through old files, email confirmations from tax software, or receipts from a tax preparer.

If you cannot find a copy and you believe you filed, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to ask whether your return was received and processed. They can tell you the status. If your return was lost or never processed, you may need to file an amended return or a late return for that year, depending on how long ago it was.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a copy of my tax return from the IRS?

Online transcripts through irs.gov are available when ready. Transcripts requested by phone or mail take 5 to 10 business days. Copies of the actual return (Form 4506) take 30 to 60 days. Your tax preparer can usually provide a copy much faster, sometimes the same day.

What is the difference between a transcript and a copy of my return?

A transcript is a summary showing your income, deductions, credits, and tax liability. A copy of your return is the actual form you signed with all schedules and attachments. Most situations (loans, verification of income) accept a transcript. You need a full copy only if specifically requested.

Can I get a return from more than 10 years ago?

The IRS keeps records for at least 10 years, sometimes longer. You can request old returns by mail using Form 4506, but processing may take longer and the IRS may charge a higher fee. Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to confirm they have the year you need before submitting your request.

Do I need to pay a fee to get my tax return?

Online transcripts from irs.gov are free. Transcripts requested by phone or mail cost a small fee per return. Copies of the actual return (Form 4506) also cost a fee. Your tax preparer may charge a fee to retrieve and send your return, but it is often less than the IRS fee.

What if I lost my Social Security number or do not remember my filing status?

You will need your Social Security number to request a transcript or return. If you do not remember your filing status, you can look it up on any previous tax return you have, or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and they can tell you. Have your name, address, and date of birth ready.

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.