Media Relations Office Washington, D.C. Media Contact: 202.317.4000
www.IRS.gov/newsroom Public Contact: 800.829.1040
How Do I Get My Tax Transcript?
FS-2015-28, December 2015
The IRS reminds taxpayers to plan ahead and take advantage of other options to obtain a tax
transcript while work continues to bring the viewable/printable functionality of the Get Transcript
application back online in the near future with enhanced identity protection security features.
In the meantime, taxpayers don’t have to wait. They can order their transcript online, over the
phone or by mail — the quickest options available. If they plan ahead, they should receive their
transcript within five to 10 days from the time the IRS receives the request online.
Here are some tips for fast service:
• To order a transcript online and have it delivered by mail, go to IRS.gov and use the Get
Transcript tool. Simply click the "Get Transcript by Mail" button.
• To order by phone, call 800-908-9946 and follow the prompts.
• To request an individual tax return transcript by mail or fax, complete Form 4506T-EZ, Short
Form Request for Individual Tax Return Transcript. Businesses and individuals who need a
tax account transcript should use Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.
• Keep in mind that the current year’s transcript availability is affected by the method used to
file the return and whether the return includes a refund or balance due. Taxpayers should use
this chart to determine when they can order a transcript.
• A tax return transcript shows most line items from the tax return that the taxpayer filed as
well as changes that were made during processing, such as math error corrections. It also
includes items from any accompanying forms and schedules filed with the tax return. It doesn’t
reflect any amended returns or adjustments to tax made after the taxpayer filed their original
return.
• A tax account transcript includes marital status, the type of return filed, adjusted gross
income and taxable income. It also includes a record of tax payments, refunds, penalty and
interest charges and adjustments to tax made after the original return was filed.
• If the taxpayer needs an exact copy of their original or amended tax return, there a charge
of $50 for each return/year requested. They should complete Form 4506, Request for Copy of
Tax Return, to make the request. Mail it to the IRS address listed on the form for their area.
Copies are generally available for the current year and past six years. Taxpayers should allow
75 days for delivery.