How to get your IRS tax transcripts

Before you start

A transcript is the IRS's record of what it has on file for you. People request them to compare their own records with an IRS notice, to see income reports that were filed under their number, or to document a return for a lender. Knowing which transcript you need saves time.

The IRS notes that a transcript is not a copy of your return. If you need a copy of the return as filed, a different form, Form 4506, applies.

Which transcript shows what

The IRS lists five individual transcript types.

• Tax return transcript: information from the return as filed
• Tax account transcript: account-level information for the year
• Record of account transcript: return and account information together
• Wage and income transcript: information reported to the IRS by employers and payers, such as W-2s and 1099s
• Verification of non-filing letter: confirmation that the IRS has no return on file for a year

Ways to order

Your IRS Online Account offers all transcript types under Records and Status. The IRS also notes that W-2 and 1099 information updates weekly there, so a recent document may not yet appear. Get Transcript by mail and the transcript phone line, 800-908-9946, cover return and account transcripts and take about five to ten calendar days to arrive. Form 4506-T works for any type and is needed for older years.

Years of coverage vary by transcript type and method, so check the IRS page if you are looking for an earlier year. Only the taxpayer should sign in to an Online Account.

Common snags and how to read the result

A frequent snag is trying to read a transcript like a return. Another is expecting a transcript to look like a return; transcripts use codes and abbreviations, so keep the IRS's explanation open while you read.

When a notice says income was reported that you do not recognize, the wage and income transcript is where to look. IRS Audit Defense Pro is software that helps you organize your facts and draft a response letter you review and send yourself. It is not a law firm, CPA or enrolled agent, and it gives no legal or tax advice.

Step by step

1. Decide which transcript answers your questionMatch your question to a type: a filed return, post-filing activity, income reports, or proof that nothing was filed.
2. Choose the fastest method you can useThe IRS Online Account provides all types. If you cannot use it, choose by mail, by phone, or Form 4506-T.
3. Verify your identity and sign inFollow the IRS prompts for your Online Account. The IRS says only the taxpayer should sign in.
4. Select the form type and tax yearGo to Records and Status, choose the transcript and the year. Download or print it.
5. Order by mail or phone if neededRequest return or account transcripts from the Get Transcript by mail tool or by calling 800-908-9946, and allow about five to ten calendar days.
6. Use Form 4506-T for other needsComplete Form 4506-T for any transcript type or for older years, and send it as the form instructs.
7. Compare it with your recordsLay the transcript beside your return and your documents. Mark every difference.
8. Keep a copy and note questionsFile the transcript with your notice. If something looks wrong, the IRS number for individuals is 800-829-1040 (check current hours on the IRS page).

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• IRS: Transcript types for individuals and ways to order them
• IRS: Online account for individuals FAQ
• IRS: Let us help you

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• How to respond to an IRS notice, step by stepRead the whole notice, note the notice number and the response date, confirm the letter is genuinely from the IRS, gather your records, decide whether you agree or disagree, then reply in writing by the date on the notice.
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