Tax Copies or IRS Transcript? How to Get Them and Which is Better.

Keeping copies of your tax returns is essential for at least three years. However, if you accidentally dispose of some of that paperwork too soon, there's no need to panic. You can request a tax transcript from the IRS at no charge, and it serves as a valid alternative to your original tax return. Whether you need it for a home loan application or college financial aid, obtaining an IRS transcript is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can get your IRS transcript hassle-free.

Understanding the IRS Transcript

An IRS transcript is a document provided by the IRS that displays essential tax data, including your tax filing history or account balance. It may look different from your original tax return, but it serves essentially the same purpose for various financial endeavors.

Types of IRS Transcripts

There are different types of IRS transcripts available to meet specific needs:

1. Tax Return Transcript: This transcript shows your original Form 1040 tax return as filed, along with any forms or schedules you included. However, it won't reflect updates made through an amended return.
2. Tax Account Transcript: Providing basic information like your filing status, taxable income, and payment types, this transcript shows changes made after you filed your original return.
3. Record of Account Transcript: Combining both the tax return and tax account transcripts, this provides a comprehensive overview of your tax-related activities.
4. Wage and Income Transcript: Limited to 85 informational tax documents, this transcript includes data from your Form W-2 and 1099s.
5. Verification of Non-Filing Letter: This transcript confirms whether you filed a tax return for a specific year.

Obtaining an IRS Transcript

To get your IRS transcript, you have several options:

1. Online Request: The most efficient way is to create an account on the IRS website. With an online account, you can instantly view, print, or download your tax transcripts.
2. Mail or Phone Request: If you prefer a different method, you can request your transcripts by mail using IRS Form 4506-T or by phone by calling 800-908-9946. It typically takes up to 10 calendar days to receive your transcripts.

Getting a Copy of Your Actual Tax Return

If you need a copy of your original tax return, you can request it from the IRS using Form 4506. However, there is a fee per tax year. The original tax return provides more detailed information compared to the tax transcript, making it advantageous in some cases.

R&G Brenner Can Assist You

Obtaining your IRS transcript is crucial for various financial matters, and you can quickly and easily obtain transcripts or copy request by following the instructions above. R&G Brenner Tax + Accounting is here to help and our professionals can assist you with this process. However, remember that all current R&G Brenner clients have FREE access to their previous tax returns via our mobile app and/or client portal.

If you have any questions or need expert assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to R&G Brenner Tax + Accounting. We are dedicated to providing personalized and reliable tax and accounting services to meet your unique needs. Contact us at 888-APRIL-15 or book a consultation with one of our tax professionals today.