Types of IRS tax transcripts
The IRS offers five transcript types at no charge. The right one depends on the information you need.
| Transcript type | What it shows | When it can help |
|---|---|---|
| Tax return transcript | Most line items from your original return, including AGI, but not later changes | Reviewing your originally filed return or verifying income |
| Tax account transcript | Basic return information, payments, and changes made after filing | Checking account activity or resolving an IRS notice |
| Record of account transcript | Information from both the tax return and tax account transcripts | Viewing the original return and later activity together |
| Wage and income transcript | Information reported on Forms W-2, 1098, 1099, and 5498 | Replacing missing income records or preparing a return |
| Verification of non-filing letter | Confirmation that the IRS has no processed return on record for a particular year | Providing proof that no return was filed |
Source: Internal Revenue Service
Note: A tax return transcript is generally available for the current and three prior tax years. A tax account transcript may be available for the current and nine prior tax years through an IRS Individual Online Account.
Tax transcript vs. a copy of your tax return
A transcript is a free summary of information in IRS records. A full copy of your tax return includes the return and attachments as originally filed.
To request a copy, submit Form 4506 and pay a $30 fee for each return. Processing may take up to 75 calendar days. Before ordering one, confirm whether the organization requesting your records will accept a transcript instead.
Finding your adjusted gross income
Your tax return transcript shows the AGI from your originally filed return. A tax account transcript also shows AGI and may reflect later IRS adjustments.
You may need your prior-year AGI to validate an electronically filed return. You can view it through your IRS Individual Online Account or request a transcript if you no longer have your original return.
Requesting an IRS tax transcript
You can request a transcript in several ways:
- Online: Sign in to your IRS Individual Online Account to view, download, or print all five transcript types.
- By mail or phone: Request a tax return or tax account transcript by submitting a request to get your transcript by mail or call 800-908-9946. Delivery generally takes five to 10 calendar days.
- Using Form 4506-T: Submit the form by mail to request any of the five transcript types.
Note: Mailed transcripts go to the address on your latest return. If you’ve moved, update your address before submitting the request.
