🧾 How to Get a Copy of a Prior-Year Tax Return
Order an IRS transcript or an exact copy of old returns.
💰
Transcripts free; exact copies $43 each via Form 4506
⏱️
Instant to weeks depending on method
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📋 Documents you'll need
- Form 4506 (for full copies)
- Prior-year adjusted gross income (for online verification)
- Current email and mailing address
- Photo ID data for identity checks
🪜 Step-by-step
- Decide what you actually need - most lenders accept free transcripts rather than full copies.
- Use the IRS Get Transcript tool online after identity verification (requires prior-year AGI).
- Request Wage & Income, Return Transcript, or Account Transcript types relevant to your purpose.
- For exact photocopies including attachments, file Form 4506 and pay the per-return fee.
- Expect 4506 copies within about 75 days; transcripts print instantly online or mail within about two weeks.
| Estimated cost | Transcripts free; exact copies $43 each via Form 4506 |
|---|---|
| Typical timeline | Instant to weeks depending on method |
Note This guide is general information and procedures, fees, and rules can change and vary by state or agency. The official authority is always the relevant government office and its official website. See our Disclaimer.
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Frequently asked questions
Which transcript shows my AGI?
The Return Transcript shows originally filed figures; Account Transcripts show later adjustments.
What if identity verification fails online?
Call the IRS or use the paper form options; repeated failures may trigger extra verification steps.
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