Prior Year Tax Return Copies
The Tax Assistance Program (TAP) participates in the
federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
(VITA) program. VITA membership requirements stipulate that (a) we not
retain copies of any returns prepared; and (b) we not charge any fees
for our services.
This means that the TAP will not be able to
supply copies of missing prior year tax returns for any tax client.
However, if you follow the instructions below, you should be able to
obtain either a transcript or photocopies of the returns filed for tax
years prior to the current tax year.
Return Copies and Transcripts
If you need an actual copy of your
return, you must complete and mail Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax
Return. The form has a fee (see form instructions) and a check or money
order made payable to the "United States Treasury" must be included
with the form. Allow 60 calendar days to receive your copies.
Download the form from this site.
Most needs for tax return information can be met
with a tax return or account transcript, rather than an actual
copy of the return. The tax return transcript shows information from the
return as it was originally filed. A tax account transcript shows any
later adjustments either the taxpayer or the IRS made after the tax
return was filed. Transcripts are provided free of charge.
These transcripts may be acceptable substitutes for an actual copy of
the return by the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services and
lending agencies for student loans and mortgages. Check with your agency
or lender to be sure.
You can obtain a transcript by calling
(800)–829–1040 or by completing and mailing Form 4506-T, Request for
Transcript of Tax Return, to the address listed in the instructions to
request all types of transcript verification of non-filing, and
wage/income information. Download the form from this site.
Transcripts will be mailed directly to you, and should
be received in about two weeks after the IRS gets your request.
Transcripts can be mailed to a third party if you specify this on Form
4506–T. However, you must sign and date the form giving your consent for
the disclosure.
You can find additional information at: this web
page
Copies of Prior Year Indiana Returns
Indiana uses an online email to
initiate a request for a copy of a prior year's tax return filed. On
the Subject line type the word "Other". In the body of the message give
your name, the tax year for which you want a copy, your SSN or ITIN
number. You also need to give your email address so you can be
contacted if that is necessary.
Use this
web page to send that email.
Follow-up Afterward
Should you have any difficulties using these procedures,
contact the TAP by email to request
assistance.