How to Get a Copy of Your Tax Return

Where to request your tax return copy

The IRS keeps a record of every tax return you file. If you need a copy — whether for a mortgage process, proof of income, or your own records — you can request one from the IRS directly. The fastest way is to order online through the IRS website using your Social Security number and filing information. By mail, you fill out Form 4506-C and wait 5 to 10 business days. By phone, you call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and speak to a representative, though wait times can be long.

You can also get a copy from your tax preparer or accountant if you used one — they usually keep client files for at least three to seven years and can print or email your return the same day. If you filed through tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block, log into your account and read your return from there. That is almost always the fastest option if you remember your login.

The IRS charges a small fee for copies ordered directly — typically $50 for a transcript or certified copy, though the exact amount depends on the form you request. Transcripts (summaries of your return) cost less than certified copies (the actual return document). Your tax preparer or software account may not charge anything extra.

Key Takeaways

The IRS online ordering system is the fastest free method if you have your Social Security number and filing information handy.
Your tax preparer or software account (TurboTax, H&R Block) can usually send you a copy the same day at no extra cost.
Mailing Form 4506-C to the IRS takes 5 to 10 business days and costs around $50 for a certified copy.
A transcript (summary of income and tax paid) costs less than a full certified copy and works for most proof-of-income situations.
The IRS keeps records going back at least 10 years, so you can request returns from prior years using the same methods.

Ordering online through the IRS website

Go to irs.gov and look for "Get Your Tax Record" or "Order a Transcript." You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status from the year you are requesting, and the mailing address on that return. The system will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history or other records.

Once verified, you choose which year you want and which type of document: a transcript (which shows income, tax paid, and filing status but not all the details of your return) or a full copy of the actual return you filed. Transcripts are faster and cheaper. The IRS emails or mails your document within one to five business days depending on the method you choose.

This method is free if you order online. There is no fee for the transcript itself, though the IRS may charge a small amount if you request a certified copy mailed to you. Check the website for current pricing before you submit.

Requesting by mail with Form 4506-C

If you prefer not to use the online system or do not have internet access, you can print Form 4506-C from irs.gov, fill it out by hand, and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form. The form asks for your name, Social Security number, the tax year you want, and what type of document you need (transcript or certified copy).

Mail the completed form to the IRS service center that handles your state. The IRS website lists the correct address for each state. Include a check or money order for the fee if you are requesting a certified copy. Do not send cash.

Processing takes 5 to 10 business days from the date the IRS receives your form, plus mailing time both ways. If you need the document urgently, this is not the fastest route. Keep a copy of the form and your check number for your records in case you need to follow up.

Getting your return from your tax preparer or software

If you paid someone to prepare your return — a CPA, tax attorney, or tax preparation service — they have a copy on file. Call or email them and ask for a copy. Most will email it to you the same day or print it while you wait if you visit in person. There is usually no charge for this, since they already prepared it for you.

If you used tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct, log into your account on their website. Look for a section called "My Returns," "Tax Documents," or "Prior Year Returns." read the PDF of your return and save it to your computer. This takes minutes and costs nothing.

This is often the easiest option because you already have the login information and the software keeps your return stored indefinitely. If you have lost your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the software's login page to reset it.

Understanding transcripts versus certified copies

The IRS offers different documents depending on what you need. A tax return transcript is a summary that shows your filing status, income reported, tax paid, and whether you owed or received a refund. It does not include all the schedules and forms you filed (like Schedule C if you are self-employed, or Schedule A if you itemized deductions).

A certified copy is the actual return you filed, with all schedules and forms attached. It has an official IRS stamp and signature, which is why some organizations require it instead of a transcript. Certified copies cost more and take longer to process.

For most situations — proving income to a landlord, a lender, or an employer — a transcript is sufficient and faster. Only request a certified copy if the organization specifically asks for it. Ask them first before you order, because you may be paying for something you do not need.

What to do if you cannot find your information

If you do not remember your filing status, the address on your return, or other details needed to order online, you can still call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. A representative can look up your information and either mail you a copy or help you order one. This usually takes longer than ordering online because of wait times, but it works if you are stuck.

If you filed a return but the IRS has no record of it, the return may not have been processed yet (which can take several weeks), or it may have been lost in the mail. Ask the IRS representative to check the status of your return. If it was never received, you will need to file again or contact the IRS to investigate.

If you never filed a return for a year you need a copy of, you cannot get one from the IRS. You would need to file a return for that year first, either on your own or with help from a tax preparer.

Getting copies for prior years and amended returns

The IRS keeps records of returns going back at least 10 years. You can request a copy of any return filed within that window using the same methods — online, by mail, or by phone. straightforward specify the tax year when you order.

If you filed an amended return (Form 1040-X) for a prior year, you can request a copy of that as well. The IRS will send you the amended version, not the original. If you need both the original and amended return, you may need to request them separately or ask the IRS which document they have on file.

Transcripts for prior years are usually available when ready online. Certified copies take longer because they have to be printed and mailed. If you need returns from multiple years, you can request them all at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to get a copy of my tax return?

Ordering online through the IRS website is free. Requesting a certified copy by mail costs around $50, though the exact fee varies. Getting a copy from your tax preparer or software account usually costs nothing. A transcript costs less than a certified copy if you order directly from the IRS.

Can I get a copy of someone else's tax return?

No, unless you have power of attorney or are an authorized representative (like a tax preparer or attorney). The IRS will not release another person's return without written authorization. If you are a business owner needing an employee's return information, you would need their signed consent.

What if I filed jointly with a spouse and we are now divorced?

You can request a copy of a jointly filed return you were part of. If your ex-spouse objects, the IRS may require additional documentation. Contact the IRS directly to explain your situation — they can tell you what proof you need to provide.

How long does it take to get a copy if I order online?

The IRS typically emails or mails your transcript within one to five business days of your order, depending on which delivery method you choose. Certified copies take longer, usually 5 to 10 business days. Mailing time is not included in these estimates.

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

This usually means your return has not been processed yet (which can take several weeks), or it was not received. Ask the IRS to check the status. If it was never received, you may need to file again or work with a tax professional to investigate what happened.

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.