What Form 4506 (2025) Is For
IRS Form 4506 allows a tax filer to request a complete copy of a previously filed tax return, including all schedules, income statements, and documents submitted initially to the IRS. This request provides a full original return, which offers more detail than a tax transcript or tax return transcript accessed through an online account. Taxpayers use it when they need personal tax records for verification, documentation, or financial review. The form supports requests for previous tax returns from up to seven years, depending on the availability of IRS records.
Form 4506 is often required when a taxpayer needs to provide financial information for a lender, government agency, or as part of a legal process. It can also help when a previous address does not match the current address on IRS records. A business, spouse, or authorized third party may request a copy directly if proper authorization is provided. The form is mailed to an IRS address listed in the instructions and must include accurate identifying information, such as a Social Security number.
For a detailed breakdown of filing requirements, eligibility rules, and step-by-step instructions, see our comprehensive Form 4506: Request for Copy of Tax Return (2025) — Complete, Plain-English Guide.
When You’d Use Form 4506
Taxpayers typically use Form 4506 when a full copy of a return is needed instead of a free transcript online. Lenders, courts, and state agencies often require exact tax records to verify income, filing status, and financial information. This applies when a tax filer needs to review an older return, confirm what was filed, or provide documents for FAFSA or business financing. The form ensures access to complete tax returns for official purposes.
A tax filer may also use Form 4506 when personal tax records were lost, damaged, or never kept. It helps validate information before filing an amended return or resolving issues involving non-filing letters or tax verification. Taxpayers can request the IRS to send a copy directly to a third party, such as a mortgage lender or attorney. The request must include a complete street address, accurate dates, and the appropriate tax year.
Key Rules or Details for 2025
The IRS requires a $30 fee for each tax year requested, and payment must be included with the mailed form. The IRS will only refund this charge if the requested tax return cannot be found in its records. Form 4506 must be signed, dated, and received within 120 days to remain valid. The taxpayer can request only one return type per form and must enter consistent information across each line.
The IRS requires tax filers to provide accurate identifying details, including a Social Security number, filing address, and previous address, if applicable. Up to eight tax years may be requested, provided they are available in the IRS archives. Returns must have been fully processed before the IRS can issue copies. All requests must be mailed to the correct IRS address listed in the instructions because fax or online submission is not available.
For complete details on wage reporting, withholdings, and unemployment tax filings, see our guide for Individual Credit & Deduction Forms.
Step-by-Step (High Level)
Step 1: Gather identifying information
A taxpayer should collect a Social Security number, current address, previous address, income statements, and the exact tax year for which the return is being filed. A business should gather its EIN and the address used during filing.
Step 2: Obtain and review the form
The taxpayer should download Form 4506 from the IRS website. The taxpayer should read the instructions carefully and review the page explaining the IRS mailing addresses. The taxpayer should ensure that the form type and tax year match the return being requested.
Step 3: Enter personal and filing information
The taxpayer should enter the name exactly as shown on the original return and include the spouse’s name if the filing was joint. The taxpayer should enter the complete street address, including any apartment or unit number, as well as the previous address if it differs from the current address.
Step 4: Choose a recipient
The taxpayer may request that the IRS send the return directly to a third party. The taxpayer should provide the full name, address, department, and phone number of the party to whom the document is being sent.
Step 5: Calculate and include payment
The taxpayer should calculate the total charge based on the number of copies requested. The taxpayer should write a check or money order payable to the United States Treasury and include identifying information such as the Social Security number and tax year.
Step 6: Sign and date the form
The taxpayer must sign, date, and complete the authorization box. A spouse must sign only when required for a joint filing. The taxpayer should ensure the date is current so that the form remains valid upon receipt.
Step 7: Mail the form to the correct IRS address
The taxpayer should use the IRS address listed in the instructions. The correct address depends on the taxpayer’s state of residence. The taxpayer should keep a copy of the form for personal records.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Taxpayers sometimes enter incorrect addresses, which can be avoided by verifying the current mailing address before submitting the request.
- Taxpayers often leave signatures or authorization boxes incomplete, and they can prevent rejection by signing, dating, and completing all required fields.
- Taxpayers may enter the wrong tax year, and they can avoid delays by using the proper month-day-year format.
- Taxpayers occasionally forget to include payment, and they can avoid processing issues by enclosing the correct fee for all requested copies.
- Taxpayers sometimes mail the form to the incorrect IRS location, which can be prevented by using the correct mailing address based on their state.
Learn more about how to avoid business tax problems in our guide on How to File and Avoid Penalties.
What Happens After You File
After Form 4506 is mailed, the IRS reviews the request, verifies the tax filer’s identity, and confirms that the requested tax records exist for the tax year entered. Processing may take up to 75 days, depending on the speed at which the original return was filed and processed. If the IRS locates the record, a complete copy is mailed to the taxpayer or the authorized third party. If the return cannot be found, the IRS issues a notice and refunds the payment. Taxpayers may contact the IRS by phone if they have not received a copy within the standard timeframe. Checking an online account or transcript can help verify filing details before submitting another request.
FAQs
Can a taxpayer request previous tax returns for free?
A taxpayer may request a free transcript online; however, obtaining a complete copy of an original return requires Form 4506, accompanied by payment.
Can a business request a return using this form?
A business may request a copy by entering its EIN and the correct filing address used on the original return.
Does a spouse need to sign the form?
A spouse must sign only when the original return required both signatures.
Can the IRS send the return directly to a third party?
Yes, the taxpayer may provide a third-party address and contact information on the form.
Is Form 4506 used for state tax returns?
No, Form 4506 is used only for federal tax returns. State tax returns must be obtained through the state tax department.
How many years back can a taxpayer request?
Most personal federal tax returns are available for up to seven years, depending on the availability of IRS records.
For more resources on filing or understanding prior-year IRS forms, visit our Form Summaries and Guides Library or see our IRS assistance guide.
