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Tax Tip 2026-65, Aug. 26, 2026
Taxpayers may need to access their tax records or transcripts for many different reasons. It could be needed for filing a tax return, applying for a mortgage or loan, to name a couple of reasons.
There are several different kinds of tax transcripts available to taxpayers for free. Here’s what’s available, what they are and how they can be obtained.
What are the different transcript types?
- Tax return transcripts show most line items from the taxpayer’s original Form 1040-series tax return, along with any forms and schedules, but doesn't show any changes made after the original return was filed. It’s available for the current and three prior tax years and is often used for life events such as mortgages or financial aid.
- Tax account transcripts show basic information such as filing status, taxable income, and payment types. Unlike the tax return transcripts, this one will show changes made after the original return was filed and is generally available for the current and nine prior tax years.
- Record of account transcripts combine 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 transcripts show data from information returns we receive such as Forms W-2, 1098, 1099, and 5498. The transcript will only display information return documents that have been filed with the IRS which may not reflect all the information return documents issued to the taxpayer. This transcript is available for the current and nine prior tax years.
- Verification of non-filing letter states 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 the taxpayer was 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.
Ways to get transcripts
- Register to use Individual Online Account to view, print, or download all transcript types listed above.
- Order a transcript by mail or call the automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946. This typically takes between 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery.
- Request any transcript listed above by submitting Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.
A transcript isn't a photocopy of a taxpayer’s actual return. If a copy of the original return is needed, they can submit Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. Refer to the form for the processing time and fee.