How to Get a Copy of Your Tax Return

The fastest way depends on which year and which agency

You can get a copy of a federal tax return you filed through the IRS, or through a tax professional or software company if they prepared it for you. The IRS offers three routes: read it free from your online account, order it by mail, or call their automated line. State returns work differently — you contact your state tax agency directly, and the process varies by state.

If you filed recently (within the last few weeks), your return may not yet be in the IRS system. The IRS typically takes 21 days to process a return after it receives it. If you filed electronically, check your email for a confirmation receipt first — that proves the IRS got it, even if the return itself isn't ready yet.

Key Takeaways

The IRS Free Account tool at IRS.gov lets you view and read your federal return when ready if you filed in the last six years.
If you cannot access your account online, you can order a transcript by mail (Form 4506-C) or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request one by phone.
A transcript and a return copy are different documents — a transcript shows what the IRS has on file, while a return copy is the actual form you submitted.
State tax returns must be requested from your state's tax agency, not the IRS, and timelines and methods vary widely by state.
If a tax professional or software company prepared your return, contact them first — they usually have a copy and can send it faster than the IRS.

Downloading your return from your IRS account

The fastest option is to log into your IRS account at IRS.gov using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. Once logged in, you can view and read your federal return for the last six years. This works for any return you filed electronically or that the IRS has processed.

You will need to set up an account if you do not have one already. The IRS offers two login methods: direct login with your Social Security number, or login through ID.me, a third-party identity verification service. Both are free. Once you are in, look for the "Tax Records" section and select the year you need. You can then read a PDF copy to your computer or phone.

This method works only if the IRS has already processed your return. If you filed very recently, wait at least 21 days before trying this route.

Ordering a transcript or return copy by mail

If you cannot access your account online or prefer a mailed copy, you can order a transcript using Form 4506-C (Request for Transcript of Tax Return). Mail the completed form to the IRS address listed on the form itself — it varies by state. The IRS will mail the document to you, which typically takes 5 to 10 business days after they receive your request.

A transcript shows the information the IRS has on file for that year — your income, filing status, and tax paid — but it is not the actual return form you submitted. If you need the exact return you filed, including all schedules and attachments, request a return copy instead. You can do this on the same Form 4506-C by checking the appropriate box.

You can also order a transcript online without mailing a form. Go to IRS.gov, select "Get Transcript Online," and log in with your account. You can then order a transcript to be mailed to you or view it when ready on screen. This is faster than mailing Form 4506-C.

Requesting a copy by phone

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). An automated system will walk you through ordering a transcript. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and the tax year you need.

The IRS will mail the transcript to the address on file with your return. This usually takes 5 to 10 business days. If you need to speak to a person rather than use the automated line, wait times can be long, especially during tax season (January through April).

Getting your return from a tax professional or software company

If a CPA, tax attorney, or tax preparation service prepared your return, contact them directly. They keep copies of returns they file and can usually send you one within a day or two. This is often faster than requesting one from the IRS.

If you used tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or similar), log into your account with that company. Most software platforms store your return and let you read it anytime. You may need to pay a fee if you did not purchase the software's premium or "deluxe" version, or if you are accessing a return from several years ago.

Requesting a state tax return

State tax returns are not available through the IRS. You must contact your state's tax agency directly. Each state has its own process and timeline. Some states let you read returns from an online account (similar to the IRS), while others require you to mail a form or call a phone number.

Find your state's tax agency by searching "[your state] department of revenue" or "[your state] tax commission." Their website will have instructions for requesting a copy. Some states charge a small fee (typically $5 to $15) for a mailed copy, while others provide it free. Processing time ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on the state.

What to do if you cannot find your return

If you filed a return but cannot locate it through any of these methods, the return may not have been processed yet, or there may be an issue with your account. Wait at least 21 days from the date you filed before concluding it is missing.

If it has been more than 21 days and you still cannot find it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and provide your Social Security number and the tax year in question. An agent can check whether the return was received and processed. If there is a problem with your account or identity verification, they can help you resolve it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a transcript the same as my actual tax return?

No. A transcript is a summary of what the IRS has on file — your income, filing status, and tax paid. Your actual return includes the forms you submitted (1040, schedules, and attachments). If you need the full return for a mortgage process or other purpose, order a return copy, not a transcript. Ask the organization requesting it which one they need.

How much does it cost to get a copy of my return?

Federal returns are free to read from your IRS account or order online. Ordering by mail or phone is also free. Some state tax agencies charge a small fee (usually $5 to $15) for a mailed copy. Tax software companies may charge a fee if you are accessing an old return or did not purchase their premium version.

Can I get a copy of someone else's tax return?

No, unless you have power of attorney or are an authorized representative. The IRS will only release a return to the person who filed it or to someone with legal authority to act on their behalf. If you are a tax professional or attorney, you can file Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) to gain access to a client's return.

What if I filed my return more than six years ago?

The IRS keeps records for at least seven years, but you cannot read very old returns from your online account. You must order a transcript or return copy by mail using Form 4506-C or by calling 1-800-829-1040. Processing time is the same as for recent years.

Do I need my PIN or password to get a copy of my return?

You need to log into your IRS account, which requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. You do not need a PIN or password if you use ID.me to verify your identity. If you set up a direct IRS login, you will create a password during setup.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.