How to Request a Connecticut Tax Transcript or Old Return

If you live in Connecticut and need a state income tax return copy, the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) offers an official process for requesting these tax records. While the IRS provides federal tax transcripts, Connecticut handles requests differently, giving taxpayers complete return copies rather than partial summaries. These documents can be essential for filing corrections, resolving disputes, or verifying income.

Taxpayers often need a Connecticut tax transcript or old return when applying for a loan, submitting FAFSA for financial aid, or providing proof of income to an agency. Businesses may also need prior-year tax forms to reconcile accounts or respond to questions from the Department of Revenue. Having accurate documents ensures that payments, statements, and other records are reviewed correctly, which can prevent delays when dealing with financial institutions or government offices.

To request your records, you must submit the proper forms with identifying information such as your Social Security number, tax year, and current address. The DRS allows individuals and businesses to make requests by mail, in person at their Hartford office, or online through the myconneCT portal. Each method requires that documents be complete, signed, and submitted with the required attachments. Requests are generally processed within a few weeks, and taxpayers can then view, print, or receive copies of their state income tax returns directly.

What Is a Connecticut Tax Return Copy?

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) does not issue transcripts like the IRS. Instead, taxpayers request a complete copy of their state income tax return using Form LGL-002. These documents include the full return, schedules, and attachments, accurately recording what was filed for a specific tax year.

Common reasons taxpayers request Connecticut tax records include:

• Mortgage or loan applications: Lenders may require state tax returns to confirm income.
  
  
• FAFSA and student aid: Schools often ask for state and federal tax forms when reviewing applications.
  
  
• Immigration cases: Agencies sometimes request complete state and federal returns for verification.
  
  
• Business or taxpayer disputes: Records may be required to reconcile payments, resolve account issues, or verify filing information against departmental records.
  
  
• Amended returns: Copies help ensure accurate filing when correcting prior years.

Who Can Request Tax Records?

Not everyone can access Connecticut tax records. The Department of Revenue Services (DRS) requires proof of identity or legal authority before releasing documents. Eligibility depends on whether the request is for an individual, business, or estate.

Those who may request Connecticut tax returns include the following:

• Individual taxpayers: You may request your own records, or your spouse may also request them for joint returns.
  
  
• Business representatives: Corporate officers, LLC managers or members, and general partners may request business tax forms with proper documentation.
  
  
• Authorized representatives: Accountants, attorneys, or others with a signed Form LGL-001 Power of Attorney can act on behalf of the taxpayer.
  
  
• Executors or trustees: Estates and trusts may obtain copies of court documents or trust agreements if provided.

Step-by-Step Guide: Requesting Online via myconneCT

The fastest way to get a Connecticut tax transcript or return copy is through myconneCT, the Department of Revenue Services’ secure online portal. This system allows taxpayers to submit requests, upload forms, and track progress without mailing paper documents.

Steps to request your records online:

• Step 1 – Visit and log in: Use your existing account on the myconneCT website or register with your Social Security number and Connecticut Tax Registration Number.
  
  
• Step 2 – Open secure messaging: From the dashboard, select “More…” → “Correspondence” → “Send a Message.”
• Step 3 – Select account and tax year: Choose the correct account type and period. Enter details clearly so the request is reviewed immediately.
  
  
• Step 4 – Attach required documents: Upload a completed Form LGL-002, a copy of a valid photo ID, and supporting documents if you’re an authorized representative.
  
  
• Step 5 – Submit and track: Send the request. Processing typically takes about three weeks. You can view responses or requests for more information in your myconneCT messages.

Step-by-Step Guide: Requesting by Mail or Hand-Delivery

If you cannot use myconneCT, the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) also accepts requests by mail or in person at its Hartford office. While slower than online filing, this process works for all taxpayers.

• Download the form: Visit the Connecticut DRS website and download Form LGL-002. Always use the latest version.
• Fill out the form: Provide your name, Social Security number, current address, and requested tax year. Indicate whether the account is for an individual or a business, then sign and date.
• Gather supporting documents: Include a copy of a valid photo ID. If you are a representative, attach documents such as a Power of Attorney (Form LGL-001), a partnership agreement, or an executor’s certificate.
• Mail or deliver your request: Send your packet to:

Operations Bureau/Walk-in Support
Department of Revenue Services
450 Columbus Blvd, Suite 1
Hartford, CT 06103-1837

• Wait for processing: Requests take about three weeks to process. Keep copies of everything submitted. For updates, call DRS at (860) 297-5962.

Accessing Recent Returns Directly in myconneCT

For recent filings, you may not need to submit Form LGL-002. The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) allows taxpayers to log in to myconneCT and access their state income tax returns immediately.

• Available records: Taxpayers can view and print the current year’s return and the two prior tax years.
• Access method: Log in to myconneCT, select your account, and open the Filing History page.
• What you can do: You may download, print, or review records instantly for personal use or to provide to lenders, schools, or agencies.

This option is advantageous when applying for a loan or completing the FAFSA, as many institutions only require recent tax returns.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a small error can delay your request for a Connecticut tax transcript or return copy. Reviewing these points before you submit helps ensure the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) can process your request without issues.

• Incomplete forms: Always fill in every required box on Form LGL-002 and sign and date it.
• Missing identification: You must provide a valid copy of a driver’s license, passport, or other state-issued ID.
• Incorrect mailing details: If mailing, confirm that the correct Hartford office address is clearly written on the envelope.
• Expired or invalid documents: Do not submit outdated identification or expired authorizations, such as an old Power of Attorney.
• Lack of supporting paperwork: Businesses and estates must include legal documents proving authority to request records.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can I request Connecticut tax returns?

The Department of Revenue Services maintains records for multiple years; however, availability depends on the tax year. Some older returns may not be stored electronically and can take longer to retrieve. It is always essential to list the exact years on Form LGL-002 so your request is complete and processed without delay.

Is there a fee for requesting my Connecticut tax records?

Most requests for state income tax returns are free of charge. The Department of Revenue Services processes Form LGL-002 without a standard fee; however, certain unusual cases may incur administrative costs. If you are unsure, contact DRS before submitting your documents to avoid unexpected delays or charges.

Can a tax preparer request my records on my behalf?

Yes, but only if the tax preparer is authorized correctly. They must file a completed Form LGL-001 Power of Attorney with their request. Without this form, the department cannot release your tax returns to anyone other than you. Always confirm that your representative includes signed authorization documents with their filing.

What if I need my tax documents for immigration purposes?

Immigration cases often require complete copies of state and federal tax forms. You must submit Form LGL-002 with valid identification and list the specific tax years needed. Because processing takes approximately three weeks, apply early to ensure you can provide complete documents to the immigration office by the required deadline.

What is the fastest way to access recent Connecticut tax records?

The quickest option is through the myconneCT online portal. You can log in, view, and print the current year and the two prior years immediately. For older tax years, you still need to submit Form LGL-002. The secure messaging system helps avoid mailing delays and speeds up department processing.