Transcript types for individuals and ways to order them

Ways to get transcripts

You may register to use Individual Online Account to view, print, or download all transcript types listed below.

If you're unable to register, or you prefer not to use Individual Online Account, you may order a tax return transcript and/or a tax account transcript through Get transcript by mail or by calling the automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946. Please allow 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery.

You may also request any transcript type listed below by submitting Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.

Find out how to get a business tax transcript. 

Transcript types

We offer the following transcript types at no charge:

• Tax return transcript - shows most line items from your original Form 1040-series tax return as filed, along with any forms and schedules. It doesn't show changes made after you filed your original return. This transcript is available for the current and three prior tax years. A tax return transcript usually meets the needs of lending institutions offering mortgages.
• Tax account transcript - shows basic data such as filing status, taxable income, and payment types. It also shows changes made after you filed your original return. This transcript is available for the current and nine prior tax years through Individual Online Account, and the current and three prior tax years through Get transcript by mail or by calling 800-908-9946. These years and older tax years can be obtained by submitting Form 4506-T.
• Record of account transcript - combines the tax return and tax account transcripts above into one complete transcript. This transcript is available for the current and three prior tax years.
• Wage and income transcript - shows data from information returns we receive such as Forms W-2, 1098, 1099, and 5498. The transcript is limited to approximately 85 income documents. If you have more documents than that, the transcript will not generate when using Individual Online Account. You’ll receive a notification online stating that your transcript request could not be processed and to submit Form 4506-T. If you see a message of “No Record of return filed” for the current tax year, it means information has not populated to the transcript yet. Check back in late May. This transcript is available for the current and nine prior tax years.
• Verification of non-filing letter -  states that the IRS has no record of a processed Form 1040-series tax return as of the date of the request. It doesn't indicate whether you are required to file a return for that year. This letter is available after June 15 for the current tax year or anytime for the prior three tax years. Use Form 4506-T if you need a letter for older tax years.

Note: A transcript isn't a photocopy of your return. If you need a copy of your original return, submit Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. Refer to the form for the processing time and fee.

Refer to Transcript services for individuals - FAQs for more information.

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