Use Form 4506-T if you need to request tax return information. You can download Form 4506-T in PDF format below or use our document builder to fill one out in minutes.

Table of Contents

• What is Form 4506-T?
• How Many Years of Transcripts Can I Request?
• Additional points to include in form 4506-T
• What’s the Difference Between Form 4506-T and Form 4506?
• FAQs
• Form 4506-T Sample

What is Form 4506-T?

Form 4506-T, titled "Request for Transcript of Tax Return," is a document provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. It is used by taxpayers and authorized third parties, such as lenders or tax professionals, to request transcripts or copies of previously filed tax returns and other related documents from the IRS.

Here's what you need to know about Form 4506-T:

1. Purpose:

• Form 4506-T is used to request various types of tax transcripts or tax return copies, including the tax return transcript, tax account transcript, wage and income transcript, and verification of non-filing letter.

2. Tax Return Transcript:

• A tax return transcript shows most line items from the original tax return as filed, along with any accompanying forms and schedules. It is often used for purposes such as verifying income when applying for loans or financial aid.

3. Tax Account Transcript:

• A tax account transcript provides the current status of the taxpayer's tax liability, including any payments made and adjustments made by the IRS. It's useful for verifying the status of tax debt or payments.

4. Wage and Income Transcript:

• This transcript shows data from various information returns, such as W-2s, 1099s, and 1098s. It can be used to verify income when tax return copies are not available.

5. Verification of Non-Filing Letter:

• This letter confirms that the IRS has no record of a filed Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ for the requested tax year. It is often needed for various financial transactions.

6. Authorization Required:

• If someone other than the taxpayer is requesting the transcript, the taxpayer must authorize the release of their information by completing Form 4506-T.

7. Submission:

• Form 4506-T can be submitted by mail, fax, or through the IRS's online tool. The IRS provides specific mailing addresses and fax numbers for different types of transcripts.

8. Fees:

• As of my knowledge cutoff date is September 2021, there is generally no fee for requesting transcripts using Form 4506-T. However, fees may apply for requesting actual copies of tax returns.

It's important to note that the IRS periodically updates its forms and procedures, so it's advisable to check the IRS website or consult with a tax professional for the most up-to-date information regarding Form 4506-T and its uses.

How Many Years of Transcripts Can I Request?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, you can typically request tax transcripts for the past three years using Form 4506-T. This means you can request tax transcripts for the current tax year and the two previous tax years.

Here's how the transcript request period generally works:

1. Current Year: You can request transcripts for the current tax year after the IRS has processed the tax return. This usually occurs after the April tax filing deadline for most individuals.

2. Previous Year: You can request transcripts for the previous tax year once the IRS has processed those returns. For example, if you're in 2023, you can request transcripts for the 2022 tax year.

3. Second Previous Year: You can also request transcripts for the tax year before the previous year. For example, in 2023, you can request transcripts for the 2021 tax year.

Keep in mind that the availability of transcripts may vary depending on the type of transcript you need. For instance, wage and income transcripts might be available for a longer period than tax return transcripts. Additionally, the IRS may update its policies and procedures over time, so it's essential to check the IRS website or consult with the IRS or a tax professional for the most current information on transcript requests.

Additional points to include in form 4506-T

When completing Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return), it's important to provide accurate information and be aware of additional points to consider:

1. Specify the Type of Transcript Needed: Indicate clearly which type of tax transcript you need. The options include a tax return transcript, a tax account transcript, and a record of account transcript. Choose the one that best suits your purpose.

2. Check the Appropriate Tax Years: Specify the tax years for which you need transcripts. You can request transcripts for up to four tax years on one form. Be sure to double-check that you've selected the correct years.

3. Request for Specific Line Items: If you require specific line items or information from your tax return, provide details in the "Line Items" section. This is especially important if you're using the transcript for a specific financial transaction, like a mortgage application.

4. Complete the "Third-Party Designee" Section (if applicable): If you want to authorize a third party, such as a tax professional, to receive the transcript on your behalf, provide their information in this section. This is often done when a tax preparer needs access to your transcript.

5. Sign and Date the Form: Ensure that you, or the authorized third party, sign and date the form where required. An unsigned form won't be processed.

6. Attach Any Required Documents: If your request involves specific requirements, such as proof of identity, include the necessary documentation. This could be a copy of your driver's license, passport, or other identification.

7. Review the Address for Mailing: Double-check that you've provided the correct mailing address for the transcripts. Transcripts will be sent to the address on the form, so accuracy is crucial.

8. Keep a Copy for Your Records: Make a photocopy or digital copy of the completed Form 4506-T for your records before submitting it.

9. Be Aware of Processing Times: Transcripts typically take several days to process, so plan accordingly if you have a deadline.

10. Submit the Form to the Correct IRS Office: Ensure you send the form to the appropriate IRS office, as specified in the form's instructions. Sending it to the wrong office could result in processing delays.

What’s the Difference Between Form 4506-T and Form 4506?

Form 4506-T and Form 4506 are both IRS forms used to request tax return information, but they serve different purposes and have distinct differences:

Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return):

1. Purpose: Form 4506-T is primarily used to request various types of tax transcripts, including tax return transcripts, wage and income transcripts, and verification of non-filing transcripts.

2. Common Uses:
   • Lenders often use this form to verify a borrower's income when processing mortgage applications.
   • Individuals may use it to request their own tax return information for various reasons, such as applying for student aid or verifying their income.

3. Information Provided: This form typically provides summary information from your tax return, such as adjusted gross income (AGI), tax liability, and more. It doesn't include details about specific line items on your return.

Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return):

1. Purpose: Form 4506 is used to request an actual copy of a previously filed tax return, including all attachments and schedules.

2. Common Uses:
   • Individuals or businesses may use this form to obtain copies of their past tax returns for various reasons, such as applying for a loan, resolving tax-related issues, or preparing amended returns.
   • Tax professionals may use it to request copies of clients' returns for tax preparation purposes.

3. Information Provided: Form 4506 provides a complete copy of the tax return, including all schedules, attachments, and line-item details as originally filed with the IRS.

The Form 4506-T is typically used to request transcripts of tax return information for specific purposes, while Form 4506 is used to obtain actual copies of past tax returns. The choice between the two forms depends on your specific needs and whether you require summary information (4506-T) or the complete return with all details (4506).

FAQs

What is Form 4506-T used for?

Form 4506-T is used to request various types of tax transcripts from the IRS. These transcripts can be helpful for purposes like verifying income, applying for loans, or resolving tax-related issues.

What types of transcripts can I request with Form 4506-T?

You can request different types of transcripts, including tax return transcripts, tax account transcripts, and record of account transcripts, depending on your specific needs.

How far back can I request tax transcripts with Form 4506-T?

You can request transcripts for up to the past four tax years using a single Form 4506-T. If you need transcripts for additional years, you'll need to submit separate requests.

How long does it take to receive requested transcripts after submitting Form 4506-T?

Processing times can vary, but in general, it takes several days to a few weeks to receive the requested transcripts. The exact timeline may depend on factors such as the IRS's current workload and the method of delivery you choose.

Can I use Form 4506-T to request someone else's tax transcripts?

Yes, you can use Form 4506-T to request transcripts on behalf of someone else if you have their written authorization. This is commonly done by tax professionals or financial institutions when assisting clients with financial matters.

Form 4506-T Sample