Tax Return Copy

If you did not file via eFile.com, see how to get a copy or transcript of your return. Your previous year return is used to e-file as the IRS uses data from it to verify your identity. The data on an IRS transcript can be used for this if you cannot retrieve a copy of last year's return.

Tax Return Copies for eFile.com Users

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As an eFile.com tax preparer or eFiler, you have the privilege of accessing your previous year tax returns for up to 7 years. Your current and previous two returns are stored in your account on eFile.com. 

Sign in to your eFile.com account and follow the instructions below: 

1. Click My Account on the upper right side of your account screen. 
   • Note: On a mobile device, click the three dots in the upper-left corner.
2. Click the appropriate tax year link under the "Your Return" heading. Your completed return will be listed as a PDF file, ready for you to download and print.

We recommend downloading a copy of your return right after you e-file it, this way you do not forget and you have the same copy that is sent to the IRS.

Your current tax year and two previous year’s returns are kept in your current eFile.com account free of charge to you. Tax returns prior to these years are archived and, if you filed these returns with eFile.com, they can be obtained via your Personal Support Page. If you need an older return you filed with eFile.com. contact an eFile Taxpert^® for archived return copies which can be obtained at $9.95/per return copy. In comparison, the IRS charges $43.00/per return copy for any return, no matter what year.

After October 17, 2022, Archived returns for tax years 2015-2019 can be obtained for $9.95 per copy. Archived returns for Tax Year 2014 can be obtained for $43.00 per copy since these cannot be obtained from the IRS. The IRS only provides copies for the current tax year and 6 previous tax years, 2015-2021.

Tax Return Copies for Non eFile.com Users

If you did not use eFile and cannot get a copy of your return for any reason, you can either get an online transcript or order a paper copy. Note that a transcript is not the same as a copy, but has many of the figures from your return.

• Online transcript: If you used other platforms or professional tax preparers and you don't have a copy of your tax return data , such as your adjusted gross income), get a free online IRS tax transcript below. Transcripts are not the same as a tax return copy as they will only summarize your tax returns. Thus, you do not get an exact copy of your return.

Get a Free Online IRS Tax Transcript

• Paper based tax return copy: Follow these instructions to request an IRS paper based return. You may need a copy of your tax return in the event you need to prepare for a tax audit. Generally, the IRS makes tax return copies available for seven years from the original date they are filed before they are destroyed by law.
• State Tax Return copies: Visit your state tax agency website to request a copy of your state return.

Note: Be aware that a transcript does not show any changes or amendments you or the IRS may have made after the IRS accepted your return. 

File your return on eFile each year and keep all your return return copies in one place!

It is possible to have transcripts mailed to a third party if you specify this on Form 4506-T. Transcripts cannot be sent to a third party if you make your request via phone or online. Transcripts requested online can only be mailed to the address used on your last tax return.

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