Keep copies of your annual income tax returns and schedules by year. If you file electronically, you should print out and/or save an electronic copy of your return. Normally as part of the e-filing process, once you have finished preparing your return, you will be given the option to print out or save a copy of the return. You should also keep a copy of the acknowledgement of receipt of your return by the IRS, which comes in the form of an e-mail to you.
Keep copies of your W-2s and 1099s as evidence of federal income tax withheld, and copies of Forms 1040-ES if you made estimated tax payments. If you have to pay tax with your return, keep a copy of the cancelled check, credit or debit card voucher, or confirmation of electronic funds transfer. If you received a refund, keep a copy of the check, or confirmation of direct deposit to your bank account.
Requesting a Copy of Your Return from the IRS
If you need a copy of your tax return, you can request it from the IRS by filing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. This form can be downloaded from the IRS website. The IRS will send you a complete copy of your return, along with copies of your W-2 Forms for that year. There is a fee for this copy. You can request copies of returns for the current year and the past 6 years.
Requesting a Transcript from the IRS
If you don’t necessarily need a copy of the whole return, but need information from the return, you can request a transcript, which shows most line items on the return as it was filed, including items on accompanying forms and schedules. In most cases, a transcript will meet the requirements for lending institutions, for example, for purposes of verifying your income. You can request a transcript by filing Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. There is no charge for this service. Transcripts are generally available for the current year and the past 3 years.