Lenders, schools and agencies often ask for an IRS tax transcript. It is free, and you can usually get it instantly online, but you need to know which type to ask for.
This guide explains the transcript types, how to get one online or by mail, how to fill out Form 4506-T and how it differs from a copy of your return, using the IRS form and its transcript page.
The IRS says Form 4506-T is used to request tax return information, and that Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, is used to request copies of returns. Transcripts partially mask personal information (for example showing only the last four digits of a Social Security number) while the financial data stays fully visible for tax preparation, representation or income verification. Taxpayers who use a fiscal tax year must file Form 4506-T to request a return transcript.
| Type | What it shows | Availability (IRS Form 4506-T) |
|---|---|---|
| Tax return transcript | Most line items from your original return as filed, with forms and schedules; it does not reflect changes made after the return was processed | Current year and returns processed during the prior 3 processing years |
| Tax account transcript | Return type, marital status, AGI, taxable income and all payment types; penalties and adjustments after filing | Available for most returns |
| Record of account transcript | The return and account transcripts combined; the most detailed | Current year and 3 prior tax years; request this one if unsure which you need |
| Wage and income transcript | Data from information returns such as Forms W-2, 1099, 1098 and 5498 | Up to 10 years; current-year data generally not available until the year after it is filed with the IRS |
| Verification of non-filing letter | Proof the IRS has no record of a filed return for the year | Current year requests only after June 15 |
The IRS says most requests are processed within 10 business days and that the method you used to file (e-file or paper) and whether you had a balance due affect when a current-year transcript is available.
The fastest, easiest way is your IRS Individual Online Account, where you can view, print or download transcripts. If you cannot register, you can request a tax return or account transcript by mail, which arrives in 5 to 10 calendar days at the address on file, or call the automated phone service at 1-800-908-9946. Form 4506-T is the paper request that can ask for all transcript types, but since July 2019 the IRS mails transcripts only to your address of record, not to a third party such as a lender; the IRS also has Form 4506-T-EZ for the tax return transcript only. A transcript for FAFSA has its own IRS page. Remember that the IRS does not initiate contact by email, text or social media to ask for personal or financial information.
| Line or rule | What the IRS instructions say |
|---|---|
| Line 1b | Enter your first SSN or ITIN on the return, or an EIN for a business return |
| Lines 3 and 4 | Current address, and the address on the last return filed if different; file Form 8822 if you have not updated your address |
| Line 5 | Optional customer file number of up to 10 numeric characters, not an SSN |
| Line 6 | Enter only one tax form number per request |
| Signature | Sign and date, check the authority box; the IRS must receive the form within 120 days of the date signed |
| Joint returns | A transcript may go to either spouse and only one signature is required |
| Representatives | May sign only if delegated on Form 2848, line 5, and Form 2848 must be attached |
Mail or fax the form to the address for the state where you lived (or your business was) when the return was filed; the instructions list separate address charts for individual and other transcripts, so use the current chart rather than an old address. Related guides: Form W-2 guide and amended return guide.
| Need | Best route |
|---|---|
| Mortgage lender wants proof of last year's income | Download a tax return or wage and income transcript from your online account |
| You lost your W-2 and need the figures | Wage and income transcript |
| You want to see payments, penalties and adjustments on your account | Tax account transcript |
| A school or agency needs proof you did not file | Verification of non-filing letter (current year only after June 15) |
| You need the whole signed return | Form 4506, not a transcript |
These are our suggestions based on the IRS descriptions of each product.
IRS: Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return (April 2025), IRS: Get your tax records and transcripts.