Immigration Forum / USA Marriage Base / May 2005

There are two ways to obtain information that you listed on a tax return
that was filed with the IRS.

(1) You can request a photocopy of the actual return that you filed with
   the IRS. (Use IRS Form 4506 - Download Here)

(2) You can obtain a computer transcript of the information that was
   listed on the tax return that was filed with the IRS. The photocopy
   of the return would include the tax form itself, as well as all
   schedules that you submitted along with copies of the W-2 forms that
   were attached to the return. The computer transcript will give you a
   line by line listing of the return information from the form that
   was filed for the tax year requested.

There is a $23 fee for each tax period requested. It can take up to 60
calendar days to get a copy of a tax return with all schedules and W-2's
attached. Tax forms filed 6 or more years ago may not be available for
making copies.

Mail the completed Form 4506 with payment to the IRS Office in your
region. (Local IRS addresses and phone numbers)

Form 4506 can also be used to request W-2 information only. You may
receive certain federal tax information that was reported by the
employer on the W-2 Form, free of charge. Current year W-2 information
might not be available in all situations.

A "Tax Return Transcript" is available only for returns in the 1040
series (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, etc.). It shows line item entries from the
original return that you filed. In most cases, a transcript will meet
the requirements for lending institutions for mortgage verification
purposes. These transcripts are also widely accepted for financial aid
and student loan purposes. The transcripts can be ordered on a Form
4506. There is no charge for the transcripts and you should receive them
within about 10 business days from the time that we receive your
request. If you need the information sooner, the tax return transcript
and certain W-2 information can be received by visiting an IRS office
(with proper ID) or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.

If you need a "statement" of your tax account which shows changes that
you or the IRS made to the original return filed, you must request "Tax
Account Information" which shows payments and tax adjustments on your
account. You can request the "Tax Account Information" by writing to, or
visiting an IRS office or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. You
cannot use Form 4506 to request "Tax Account Information".

Form 4506 or a "Tax Return Transcript" can also be used to get
proof from the IRS that you did not file a tax return for a
particular tax year.

All IRS forms can be downloaded from this web site or ordered by calling
1-800-829-3676