How do I request forms and transcripts from the IRS?
If you’re getting ready to file and don’t have all your tax forms—like a W-2 or 1099—don’t worry. You can request transcripts directly from the IRS. You can also use transcripts to access information from prior-year tax returns.
How to request tax information
If you need a copy of your current or prior-year tax return, start by:
Contacting your tax preparer, or
Logging in to the tax software you originally filed with
If that’s not an option, you can request a tax transcript from the IRS. Transcripts are free and available online or by mail.
Types of IRS transcripts
You can request different transcripts depending on the information you need:
Tax return transcript
Shows most line items from your original tax return
Available for current and prior tax years
Doesn’t reflect changes made after the return was filed
Tax account transcript
Shows basic information like filing status, taxable income, and payment history
Includes changes made after filing
Generally available for:
Current and nine prior tax years online
Current and three prior tax years by mail
Record of account transcript
Combines the tax return and tax account transcripts
Available for the current and three prior tax years
Wage and income transcript
Shows data reported to the IRS from income forms, including Forms W-2, 1098, and 1099
Helpful if you’re missing income documents
Important note about transcripts
A transcript isn’t a photocopy of your full tax return.
If you need an actual copy of a return, you’ll need to:
Request it from your preparer or tax software provider, or
What if I haven’t received my W-2, 1098, or 1099?
Employers and other issuers generally have until January 31 to send income forms.
Some companies let you download forms online, which can be the fastest option if it’s available to you.
If you invested through a brokerage, you may receive a consolidated 1099. These statements can be sent later—issuers typically have until February 15 to mail them.
Still missing forms?
If your forms haven’t arrived by mid to late February or you’ve misplaced them:
Contact the issuer directly as a first step
If the issuer isn’t responsive, you may be able to use a wage and income transcript from the IRS
Because issuers send copies of Forms W-2, 1098, 1099, and 5498 to the IRS, these transcripts may include the information you need to file.
Timing and availability reminders
Wage and income transcripts may not be available until after April 15
Transcripts can show up to 85 income forms
You might see a message that says “No record of return filed”—this usually means the transcript hasn’t been generated yet
The IRS often recommends checking again in late May
Key takeaway
If you’re missing tax forms, start with the issuer or your prior tax software. If that doesn’t work, IRS transcripts can help you access income and return information—but timing matters, so plan ahead.
If you don’t have the needed documents by the filing deadline and think you may owe, you may need to file an extension.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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