You need a tax transcript, and you used TurboTax to file your taxes? Don't worry, you're in the right place! While TurboTax is fantastic for preparing and filing your returns, it's important to understand that tax transcripts are issued directly by the IRS, not by TurboTax. TurboTax can help you access your filed returns, but for an official IRS transcript, you'll need to go to the source.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of getting your tax transcript from the IRS, highlighting how your TurboTax records can assist you along the way.
How to Get Your Tax Transcript from the IRS (Even if You Used TurboTax)
There are several ways to obtain your tax transcript from the IRS. The quickest and most recommended method is online, but phone and mail options are also available.
Step 1: Understand Why You Need a Tax Transcript
Before diving into the "how," let's briefly touch upon the "why." Why do you need an IRS tax transcript?
Tax transcripts are frequently required for various financial processes, including:
Mortgage applications: Lenders often need them to verify your income.
Student loan applications (FAFSA): Essential for determining financial aid eligibility.
Applying for certain government benefits.
Income verification for landlords or other institutions.
Amending a previously filed return: To get accurate figures from your original filing.
Dealing with IRS notices or audits: To have a clear record of your filed return.
Understanding your specific need can help you determine which type of transcript you require.
Step 2: Identify the Type of Transcript You Need
The IRS offers several types of tax transcripts. Knowing which one you need will streamline your request process.
Sub-heading: Common Transcript Types:
Tax Return Transcript: This is the most commonly requested type. It shows most line items from your original tax return (Form 1040, 1040-SR, etc.) as you filed it, along with any accompanying forms and schedules. It does not show any changes made after you filed the original return. This is typically what mortgage lenders and student financial aid offices ask for. You can usually get this for the current and past three tax years.
Tax Account Transcript: This transcript provides basic data about your tax account, such as return type, marital status, Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), taxable income, and payment types. Crucially, it also shows any changes made by you or the IRS after your original return was filed. This is useful for confirming estimated tax payments or if you've had adjustments to your account. You can generally get this for the current and past nine tax years.
Record of Account Transcript: This is a comprehensive transcript that combines both the Tax Return Transcript and the Tax Account Transcript. It provides a complete picture, from your original return to any subsequent changes. It's available for the current and past three tax years.
Wage and Income Transcript: This transcript shows data from information returns the IRS receives, such as Forms W-2 (wages), 1098 (mortgage interest), 1099 (various income types), and 5498 (IRA contributions). This is incredibly useful if you've lost your income documents or need to verify reported income. Information for the current processing year is generally available in early April.
Verification of Non-filing Letter: This letter simply states that the IRS has no record of a processed Form 1040-series tax return for the year requested. It doesn't mean you weren't required to file, just that one hasn't been processed.
Pro-Tip: If you're unsure which one you need, the Tax Return Transcript is usually the correct choice for mortgages and financial aid. If you need a more complete picture, including any IRS adjustments, the Record of Account Transcript is your best bet.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Information
Before you start the request process, whether online, by phone, or by mail, make sure you have the following information readily available. Having these details handy will make the process much smoother.
Sub-heading: Key Information You'll Need:
Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Your Date of Birth
Your Filing Status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly)
Your Current Mailing Address (this must match the address on file with the IRS from your most recent tax return)
Access to a valid email address (for online requests)
A text-enabled mobile phone in your name (for online requests for identity verification)
Financial account numbers (such as a credit card number or an account number for a home mortgage or auto loan) for identity verification (for online requests)
How TurboTax Helps Here: If you filed with TurboTax, you can easily access your past returns. Your TurboTax account holds all this information! Log into your TurboTax account to quickly retrieve your:
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI): This is often used for identity verification.
Exact Mailing Address: Ensure the address you provide to the IRS matches what was on your last filed return. Even slight differences like "St." vs. "Street" can cause issues.
Filing Status and Tax Year: These are clearly stated on your TurboTax-prepared returns.
Step 4: Request Your Tax Transcript Online (Fastest Method)
This is the most efficient and recommended way to get your transcript. You can view, print, or download it immediately.
Sub-heading: Steps for Online Request:
Go to the IRS "Get Transcript" page: Open your web browser and navigate to
www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript.Choose "Get Transcript Online": Click on this option.
Create or Log In to Your IRS Online Account:
If you already have an account: Simply log in using your ID.me credentials.
If you don't have an account: You'll need to create one. This involves a robust identity verification process. Be prepared to:
Provide your personal information (SSN, DOB, address).
Have access to a mobile phone in your name for a security code.
Provide financial information to verify your identity (e.g., credit card number, mortgage account number, auto loan account number). The IRS will not charge your card or account; it's purely for verification.
Navigate to "Tax Records": Once logged in, you'll see a "Tax Records" tab or section. Click on it.
Select "Transcripts": You'll see an option to view or download transcripts.
Choose Your Transcript Type and Tax Year: From the dropdown menus, select the specific type of transcript you need (e.g., Tax Return Transcript) and the tax year you're requesting.
View, Print, or Download: Your transcript will be displayed. You can then view it, print it, or download it as a PDF file.
Important Note on Identity Verification: The IRS uses a strong identity verification process for online accounts to protect your sensitive tax information. Do not get frustrated if it takes a few attempts or if you need to try a different financial account for verification. This security is for your benefit. If you repeatedly fail identity verification online, you will need to use one of the alternative methods (phone or mail).
Step 5: Request Your Tax Transcript by Phone
If you prefer to speak with someone or are unable to complete the online identity verification, you can request your transcript by phone.
Sub-heading: Steps for Phone Request:
Call the IRS Automated Phone Service: Dial 800-908-9946.
Follow the Prompts: The automated system will guide you through the process.
Provide Required Information: You'll need to enter your SSN, date of birth, and the street address from your most recently filed tax return.
Select Transcript Type and Tax Year: Choose the type of transcript you need and the relevant tax year.
Receive by Mail: The transcript will be mailed to the address the IRS has on file for you. It cannot be sent to a different address via phone request. Allow 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery.
Step 6: Request Your Tax Transcript by Mail
For those who prefer a paper-based approach or cannot use the online or phone services, you can request your transcript by mail using IRS Form 4506-T or Form 4506T-EZ.
Sub-heading: Steps for Mail Request (Form 4506-T):
Download IRS Form 4506-T: Go to
www.irs.govand search for "Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return." Ensure you download the most current version.Fill Out the Form Accurately:
Line 1a & 1b: Your name and SSN/ITIN.
Line 2a & 2b: Your spouse's name and SSN/ITIN (if filing jointly).
Line 3: Your current address. This address MUST match the address on file with the IRS from your last tax return.
Line 4: Your previous address if it has changed since the last filed return.
Line 5: This is for third-party mailing (e.g., a mortgage lender). If you want it sent directly to you, leave this blank.
Line 6: Select the type of transcript you need by checking the appropriate box (e.g., "Tax Return Transcript," "Tax Account Transcript," "Record of Account Transcript," "Wage and Income Transcript," or "Verification of Non-filing Letter").
Line 7: Enter the tax year(s) or period(s) you are requesting.
Line 9: Sign and date the form. If it's a joint return, both spouses must sign.
Mail or Fax the Form: The instructions on Form 4506-T will provide the correct mailing address or fax number for your state.
Processing Time: Allow 5 to 10 business days for the IRS to process and mail your transcript. If there's an issue with matching your information, it may take longer or result in a rejection.
Sub-heading: Steps for Mail Request (Form 4506T-EZ - simpler for Tax Return Transcript):
If you only need a Tax Return Transcript and for individual returns (not business), you can use Form 4506T-EZ, which is a simpler version.
Download IRS Form 4506T-EZ: Search for "Form 4506T-EZ, Short Form Request for Individual Tax Return Transcript" on
www.irs.gov.Fill Out the Form Accurately: Similar information to Form 4506-T, but condensed.
Mail or Fax: Follow the instructions on the form for mailing or faxing.
Processing Time: Expect 5 to 10 business days for delivery.
Critical Reminder: When requesting by mail, the address on Form 4506-T or 4506T-EZ must precisely match the address the IRS has on file for you. If you've moved since your last tax filing and haven't updated your address with the IRS (via Form 8822, Change of Address), your request might be delayed or rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to tax transcripts and their quick answers:
How to check the status of my tax transcript request?
Quick Answer: The IRS generally doesn't provide a direct status checker for transcript requests. For online requests, it's instant. For mail or phone, you'll need to wait the stated 5-10 business days for delivery. If it hasn't arrived within that timeframe, you may need to re-request it.
How to get a tax transcript if I moved and my address doesn't match?
Quick Answer: You must first update your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822, Change of Address. This typically takes 4-6 weeks to process. Once updated, you can then request your transcript using your new address.
How to get a tax transcript for a business?
Quick Answer: Businesses can obtain transcripts through the IRS Business Tax Account online, by calling the business and specialty tax line, or by submitting Form 4506-T.
How to get a tax transcript if I can't verify my identity online?
Quick Answer: If online identity verification fails, you must request your transcript by phone (800-908-9946) or by mail using Form 4506-T or 4506T-EZ.
How to find my Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from a previous year using TurboTax?
Quick Answer: Log in to your TurboTax account, navigate to "Tax Home" or "Documents," select the relevant tax year, and then download or view your PDF tax return. Your AGI will be clearly listed on your Form 1040.
How to get a copy of my actual tax return from the IRS, not just a transcript?
Quick Answer: For a full copy of your tax return (including all forms and attachments), you must complete and mail IRS Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. There's a $30 fee per return, and it can take up to 75 days to process.
How to get a tax transcript if I filed my taxes with a professional tax preparer?
Quick Answer: Your tax preparer may have a copy of your return on file. However, for an official IRS transcript, you will still need to follow the steps outlined above (online, phone, or mail) directly with the IRS.
How to interpret the different transaction codes on a tax account transcript?
Quick Answer: IRS transaction codes on a tax account transcript indicate various actions on your account, such as assessments, payments, refunds, or penalties. The IRS website provides a list of common transaction codes and their meanings, or you can consult with a tax professional.
How to know which tax year transcript I need for FAFSA?
Quick Answer: The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) usually requires tax information from a "prior-prior year." For example, for the 2025-2026 FAFSA, you would generally need the 2023 tax transcript. Always double-check the specific FAFSA requirements for the academic year you are applying.
How to get a tax transcript if I never filed a tax return?
Quick Answer: If you never filed, you'll need a "Verification of Non-filing Letter." You can request this online via your IRS account, by phone, or by submitting Form 4506-T, checking the "Verification of Non-filing" box.
