Get a Copy of a Past Tax Return
There are two options here, and most people only need the free one.
Option 1: Free Transcript (Usually Enough)
A tax return transcript is a free summary of your return, it shows almost everything a lender, school, or landlord needs to see. It's available for the current year plus the last 3 years. See our Tax Transcript guide for how to get one.
Option 2: Full Exact Copy (When You Really Need It)
1
When you'd need this
Some legal or immigration situations require the actual, complete return exactly as filed, not just a summary.
2
Fill out Form 4506
This is the "Request for Copy of Tax Return." It's different from the transcript request form.
3
Pay the fee and mail it in
There's a fee per return requested (the IRS site lists the current amount), and it can take up to 75 days to arrive.
Not sure which one you actually need? Call us before you pay for anything.