An IRS transcript provides a tax record summary and helps verify income, track payments, track down 1099s, or resolve discrepancies. Here’s how to request one:
The easiest way to request an IRS transcript is to do so online.
Steps to request an IRS transcript
Visit the IRS’s “Get Transcript” tool on their website. You can view and download transcripts immediately if you verify your identity. Here are the steps:
1. Go to the IRS Website and click Get Transcript. You need to sign in or create an account if you don’t already have one.
2. Create or log into your account. If creating an account, you’ll need the following:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Access to your email
- Your filing status and personal information
- A financial account number (like a credit card, mortgage, or loan number)
- A phone number to receive a verification code
Follow the prompts to verify your identity.
3. Request Your Transcript:
- Once logged in, select the “Tax Return Transcript” option.
- Choose the 20## tax year.
- You can download it immediately as a PDF file.
Types of Transcripts Available
- Tax Return Transcript: A summary of your original tax return as filed.
- Tax Account Transcript: Details on payments, penalties, and adjustments.
- Record of Account Transcript: A combination of the tax return and tax account transcripts.
- Wage and Income Transcript: Information on income reported to the IRS, such as W-2s and 1099s.
- Verification of Non-Filing Letter: Proof that no tax return was filed for a specific year.
How much does it cost to request a transcript from the IRS?
All transcripts are free, available for the current year and up to 3 prior years.
Other ways to request a transcript
By Mail: Use Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return) or Form 4506-T-EZ. Submit the completed form to the IRS via mail or fax. Transcripts typically arrive within 5-10 business days.
By Phone: Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 to request a transcript. Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and address.