Form 4506: Request for Copy of Tax Return

Form 4506: Request for Copy of Tax Return

At times, individuals and businesses may need to request a copy of their tax return from the IRS for various purposes—such as applying for a loan, proving income for a mortgage application, or resolving issues with tax filings. The IRS Form 4506 is the official form used to request a copy of a previously filed tax return, along with any accompanying documents that were submitted with it.

This guide will explain how to complete Form 4506, the reasons why you might need to use it, and what to expect from the process.

What is Form 4506?

Form 4506, titled Request for Copy of Tax Return, allows you to request an official copy of a previously filed tax return and any related documents. Unlike the Transcript of Tax Return (which provides a summary), a copy contains the entire filed tax return, including all schedules, attachments, and forms that were submitted as part of your filing.

The IRS retains tax returns for a period of 3 to 6 years (depending on the type of return), and copies are available to the taxpayer or their authorized representative upon request.

Why You Might Need Form 4506

There are several reasons why you might need to request a copy of your tax return. Here are some of the most common scenarios:

• Applying for a loan or mortgage: Financial institutions often require copies of your tax returns to assess your income and determine whether you qualify for a loan.
• Proving income for government programs: Certain government programs (e.g., student loans, grants, or housing assistance) may require proof of income, which can be provided through a copy of your tax return.
• Tax audits: If the IRS or a state agency audits you, you may need a copy of your filed returns to verify the information provided.
• Correcting tax filing mistakes: If you discover that you made an error on a previous tax return and need to amend it, having a copy of the original return will help you make accurate corrections.
• Record-keeping: Sometimes, you may need a copy of a past return for your own records, especially if you cannot locate the original copy you filed.

Key Sections of Form 4506

Form 4506 is a straightforward form with several key sections where you’ll provide the required information for your request:

1. Taxpayer Information

   • Name and address: Provide your name, address, and taxpayer identification number (TIN), which can be your Social Security number (SSN) (for individuals) or Employer Identification Number (EIN) (for businesses).
   • Joint filers: If filing jointly, provide the name and SSN of your spouse as well.

2. Type of Tax Return Requested

   • Indicate the type of tax return you are requesting a copy of (e.g., Form 1040, Form 1120, Form 941, etc.).
   • You’ll also need to specify the tax year (or range of years) for which you need the return. If you’re requesting a return for multiple years, you can indicate the specific years in this section.

3. Copy of Tax Return

   • In this section, you’ll indicate whether you are requesting a copy of the return or simply a transcript (which is a summary of the return). If you are specifically looking for a complete copy, make sure you select the “copy” option.

4. Signatures and Certification

   • This section requires you to sign and date the form, certifying that the information provided is true and accurate. If you’re requesting a copy of a tax return for someone else (such as a spouse or business partner), you will need to provide the necessary authorization.

5. Third Party Requests (Optional)

   • If you are authorizing someone else to receive your tax return copy (e.g., an accountant, tax preparer, or legal representative), you must provide their details in this section and include a third-party authorization if necessary.

How to Complete Form 4506

1. Gather Required Information:
   To complete Form 4506, ensure you have the following information on hand:

   • Taxpayer’s full name, address, and Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
   • Tax years for which you are requesting the return copy.
   • Form number of the return you are requesting, such as Form 1040 or Form 1120.

2. Fill Out the Form:
   Carefully fill out each section, providing accurate information. Be sure to double-check the tax years and forms requested. If you are requesting returns for multiple years, list them accordingly.

3. Sign and Date the Form:
   Sign and date the form to authorize the IRS to release the requested documents. If you’re requesting a return on behalf of another individual, make sure to include their signature or a power of attorney if necessary.

4. Submit the Form to the IRS:
   Once completed, mail the form to the appropriate address listed on the IRS website or in the form instructions. Be sure to use the correct address based on your location and the type of tax return requested. You can also fax it to the appropriate number if available.

Fees for Requesting a Copy of Tax Return

There is a fee for requesting a copy of your tax return, which varies depending on the year and type of return requested. As of the latest information, the fee is $50 per return. Payment for this fee must be made by check or money order when submitting Form 4506.

The IRS only processes these requests for copies of tax returns if the correct payment is included. Be sure to include the required fee with your request, or the IRS may reject your application.

Processing Time for Form 4506

The IRS typically processes Form 4506 requests within 75 calendar days. However, the processing time may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the volume of requests, and whether there are any issues with your request. If you need the return urgently, it’s recommended to check with the IRS or consult a tax professional to explore quicker options.

What Happens After Submitting Form 4506?

Once you submit Form 4506, the IRS will process your request. If everything is in order and payment is included, the IRS will send a copy of the requested tax return to your address.

If the IRS cannot locate the requested tax return or if there are any issues with your request (e.g., incorrect year or missing payment), you will be notified and may need to resubmit the form with corrections.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Tax Year: Make sure you select the correct tax year(s) when completing the form. The IRS will only send copies of the returns for the specified years.
2. Missing Payment: If you forget to include the required payment for your request, the IRS will not process your form.
3. Inaccurate Personal Information: Ensure that your personal details, such as your name and SSN, are correct. Mistakes could delay processing.

Conclusion

Form 4506 is an essential tool for obtaining official copies of your tax returns from the IRS. Whether you need to verify past returns for a loan, audit, or any other purpose, Form 4506 makes it easy to request a copy directly from the IRS. Be sure to complete the form accurately, include the necessary payment, and allow adequate time for processing. If you encounter issues, contacting a tax professional can help resolve any complications efficiently.