Taxes
How to get your IRS tax transcript
An IRS tax transcript is an official summary of your tax return and account history. It's commonly required for mortgage applications, financial aid verification, and immigration purposes.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
Steps
Know which type of transcript you need
The IRS offers several transcript types.
- Tax Return Transcript: shows most line items from your originally filed return. Most commonly requested by mortgage lenders and FAFSA verification.
- Tax Account Transcript: shows basic tax return data plus adjustments made after filing (payments, penalties, amended returns).
- Wage and Income Transcript: shows income data reported to the IRS by employers and financial institutions (W-2s, 1099s). Useful if you are missing these forms.
- Record of Account Transcript: combines return and account transcripts.
Get your transcript online (fastest)
Log in to your IRS account at irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript. You can view and download transcripts immediately. You'll need to verify your identity to create or access an IRS account.
Request by mail or phone
If you don't have an IRS online account, use the "Get Transcript by Mail" option at irs.gov or call 1-800-908-9946. Transcripts arrive in 5–10 business days.
Submit for your lender, school, or agency
Transcripts can be sent to a third party (lender, university, immigration attorney) using Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return). Fill in the third party's name and address, and the IRS sends the transcript directly to them.
Tip: Many mortgage lenders request transcripts directly using Form 4506-C. If your lender gives you this form to sign, they are handling the request — you don't need to separately request your own copy.