Form 4506, Request For Copy of Tax Return, is an IRS form used by taxpayers to request exact copies of previously filed tax returns and tax information. It can be used to complete a current-year tax return, amend a prior-year one, and more. A fee is charged for getting a full copy, or taxpayers can opt for a free transcript.
What is Form 4506-T?
IRS Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, is filed by taxpayers to get a copy of previously-filed tax returns and tax information from the IRS. A range of different returns, including Form 1040, 1120, 1065, and 1041, can be requested; there is a $43 fee per period requested. For other needs, Forms 4506-T and 4506-T-EZ can be filed to get free transcripts of tax returns instead of an exact copy. Both primary and secondary spouses can file the form, and it takes up to 75 calendar days to process. Transcripts are accepted by loan and mortgage lenders for verification of a borrower’s income.
IRS Form 4506-T – Who Needs to Fill It Out?
IRS Form 4506 is used by taxpayers to request an exact copy of a previously filed return and associated tax information. It can be used in a variety of situations, such as completing a current-year tax return, amending a prior-year return, filing a claim for refund, applying for government benefits or student aid, or defending an IRS audit. Form 4506 is to be completed and sent to the IRS, along with a $43 fee, and copies are usually available for returns filed in the current and previous six years. Form 4506-T and Form 4506-T-EZ also allow taxpayers to request a transcript, for free, of a previously filed tax return. Transcripts are accepted by third parties, such as mortgage lenders, and transcripts include most line items contained on the original return. Taxpayers may also use the Get Transcript tool to obtain transcripts quickly and free of charge.
Step-by-Step: Form 4506-T Instructions For Filling Out the Document
Filing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return starts by downloading the form from the IRS website. Then, the taxpayer must complete the form, including information regarding the type of tax return needed, the length of time requested, and the applicable fee. The IRS requires a fee of $43 per tax period requested and will typically provide copies of returns filed in the current year as well as the previous six years. The form should be signed and mailed to the address indicated on the form. Upon its submission, your request may take up to 75 calendar days before you receive the document. Note that, if an exact copy of the return is not necessary, you can request a free transcript using Forms 4506-T or 4506-T-EZ. With these forms, the IRS can provide a printout, without any attachments, for the last three previous tax years. Lastly, transcripts can be requested for other third parties such as mortgage lenders.
Below, we present a table that will help you understand how to fill out Form 4506-T.
| Information Required for Form 4506 | Details |
|---|---|
| Download Form | Visit the IRS website to download Form 4506 |
| Form Completion | Complete the form with the following information:
|
| Submission Address | Mail the completed form to the address indicated on the form |
| Processing Time | Your request may take up to 75 calendar days to process |
| Alternate Requests | If an exact copy is not necessary, you can request a transcript using Forms 4506-T or 4506-T-EZ. With these forms, the IRS can provide a printout for the last three previous tax years. |
| Third-Party Requests | Transcripts can be requested for third parties such as mortgage lenders |
Do You Need to File Form 4506-T Each Year?
Generally, you won’t need to file Form 4506 each year unless you need an exact copy of a previously filed tax return or tax information. However, if you only require a transcript of your tax return or tax return information, Forms 4506-T and 4506-T-EZ allow you to request free transcripts from the IRS for the current and past three tax years. Form 4506-T can also be used to request tax information from the IRS for verification purposes, such as in a mortgage application. In most cases, the IRS will process your request within 75 calendar days, with the option to quickly and securely download your transcript if you use the “Get Transcript” option.
Download the official IRS Form 4506-T PDF
On the official IRS website, you will find a link to download Form 4506. However, to make it easier for you, we are providing the link in our article, which comes directly from the official irs.gov website! Click to download: Form 4506-T
Sources:
https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4506-t
