Introduction
At the end of each year, many individuals are required to file their taxes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). However, after filing your taxes, it is not uncommon to need a copy of your tax return. Whether it is for personal record-keeping or to meet the requirements of a lender, getting a copy of your tax return can be a daunting task. This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to get a copy of your tax return.
Contact Your Tax Professional
If you used a tax professional to file your taxes, then they should have a copy of your return on file. Contacting them is the easiest way to obtain a copy of your tax return. Tax professionals include certified public accountants (CPAs), enrolled agents, and attorneys who specialize in taxation.
The benefits of contacting a tax professional include that they will already have a copy of your return on file and they may be able to provide additional guidance in obtaining a copy of your return. Additionally, if you need to make any changes to your return, they can help you do so.
When looking for a tax professional, it is important to make sure they are properly licensed and have experience in the type of tax return you are filing. You can ask for references from friends or family members who have used a tax professional before. You can also search for a tax professional in your area using the National Association of Tax Professionals’ website.
Use the IRS Website to Request a Copy of Your Return
If you did not use a tax professional to file your taxes, you can still request a copy of your return directly from the IRS. To do this, you will need to go to the IRS’s website and fill out Form 4506, “Request for Copy of Tax Return.” On the form, you will need to enter your name, address, Social Security number, and the tax year(s) for which you need a copy of your return.
Once you have filled out the form, you will need to mail it to the IRS at the address provided on the form. It typically takes up to six weeks for the IRS to process your request and mail you a copy of your return. Additionally, you may be charged a fee for requesting a copy of your return.
Utilize Get Transcript Online
The IRS also offers a service called Get Transcript Online. This service allows you to quickly and easily obtain a copy of your tax return. To use Get Transcript Online, you will need to create an account using your Social Security number and other identifying information. Once you have created an account, you can select the type of transcript you need, such as a tax return transcript or an account transcript. You can then view the transcript online or print it out.
It typically takes one to five days for the IRS to process your request and provide you with a copy of your return. Additionally, there is no fee for using Get Transcript Online.
Submit IRS Form 4506-T
If you need to obtain a copy of your tax return but do not want to wait for the IRS to process your request, you can submit IRS Form 4506-T, “Request for Transcript of Tax Return.” This form is similar to Form 4506, but instead of requesting a copy of your return, you are requesting a transcript of your return.
A transcript is a summary of your return and includes all of the information that was reported to the IRS. A transcript does not include any attachments or schedules that were submitted with your return. To submit Form 4506-T, you will need to enter your name, address, Social Security number, and the tax year(s) for which you need a transcript.
Once you have filled out the form, you will need to mail it to the IRS at the address provided on the form. It typically takes up to 10 days for the IRS to process your request and mail you a transcript of your return. Additionally, there is no fee for submitting Form 4506-T.
File for an Extension on Your Taxes
If you need a copy of your return but you have already filed your taxes and the deadline has passed, you can file for an extension. Filing for an extension will give you an additional six months to file your taxes. During this time, you can request a copy of your return from the IRS.
To file for an extension, you will need to fill out Form 4868, “Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.” Once you have filled out the form, you will need to mail it to the IRS at the address provided on the form. It typically takes up to three weeks for the IRS to process your request and grant you an extension.
Request a Copy from Your State Department of Revenue
If you live in a state that has an income tax, you can also request a copy of your return from your state’s department of revenue. Each state has its own process for requesting a copy of your return, so contact your state’s department of revenue for more information.
Additionally, some states offer online services that allow you to request a copy of your return. For example, California offers an online service called CalFile that allows taxpayers to request a copy of their return and view their account information.
Conclusion
Getting a copy of your tax return can be a complicated process. However, by following the steps outlined in this article, you can get a copy of your return quickly and easily. By contacting your tax professional, using the IRS website, submitting IRS Form 4506-T, filing for an extension, and requesting a copy from your state department of revenue, you can get the documents you need in no time.
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