IRS Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, is used by individuals, businesses, or organizations to obtain a full copy of a previously filed tax return from the IRS. This includes all attachments such as W-2s, schedules, and other forms submitted with the original return. Taxpayers typically use Form 4506 when they need official records for legal proceedings, financial audits, mortgage applications, or to verify their past tax data. There is usually a fee for each return requested, and the process can take several weeks for the IRS to fulfill the request. It differs from Form 4506-T, which is used to request a transcript rather than a full copy of the tax return.
How to Complete Form 4506?
Line 1: Enter the name on your tax return. ( enter the name shown first.)
Line 2: Enter your spouse’s name shown on tax return, IF a joint return.
Line 3: Enter your current name, address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Line 4: Enter your previous address on your last return if it’s different from your current (line 3) address.
Line 5: Enter the third party’s name, address, and telephone number If your tax return is to be mailed to a third party.
Line 6: Enter the tax return you are requesting. ( Form 1040, 1120, 941, etc). Also, all attachments as originally submitted to the IRS, including Form(s) W-2, schedules, or amended returns.
Copies of Forms 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ are generally available for seven years from filing before they are destroyed by law. Other returns may be available for a longer period of time. Enter only one return number. If you need more than one type of return, you must complete another Form 4506
Line 7: Enter the tax year or period requested ( mm/dd/yyyy)
Line 8: You must pay a $43 fee for your each return request.
Full payment must be included with your request, or it will be rejected.
Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasure.
Enter your SSN, ITIN, or EIN and “Form 4506 request” on your check or money order.
- Enter cost for each return.
- Number of returns requested on line 7.
- Total cost. Multiply line 8a by line 8b.
Line 9: If we cannot find the tax return, we will refund the fee. If the refund should go to the third party listed on line 5, check the box here.
Sign the Form.