How to Request a Delaware Tax Transcript or Old Return

A Delaware tax transcript records information taken from a state income tax return. Unlike the IRS, which provides transcripts and return copies, the State of Delaware generally issues full copies of filed returns. These copies include forms, schedules, and attachments initially submitted to the Division of Revenue.

Most taxpayers and residents won’t receive a shortened transcript but a complete version of the return on file. That document will show wages, withholding figures, credits, and any refund or balance due for that year. Additionally, it serves as an official record bearing the state seal of Delaware, confirming that it was issued directly by the government.

While local taxes in other states may follow different procedures, Delaware’s process ensures that information is secure and accurate. Having a copy of your return ensures you can provide details when asked by schools, lenders, employers, or government agencies. It also helps to double-check numbers, confirm payments, or respond to questions about past filings.

Why You Might Need These Documents

Common Situations for Requesting a Delaware Tax Transcript or Return Copy

Tax records are often needed for everyday financial, legal, and personal matters. Delaware residents and other taxpayers may be asked to provide past returns or income figures to confirm wages, payments, or credits. Below are common reasons these documents become essential:

• Mortgage or loan applications: Lenders frequently require state tax information to verify income, refund history, and payment records before approving financing.
  
  
• Financial aid and student needs: The FAFSA and other education programs may request a copy of the Delaware income tax return to confirm household earnings.
  
  
• Immigration cases: USCIS applications often require proof of tax compliance from the state of Delaware and federal records.
  
  
• Business purposes: Employers, small business owners, and partners may need return copies to support loans, bookkeeping, or partnership agreements.
  
  
• Court or legal proceedings: Copies of state tax returns can serve as evidence in disputes over wages, credits, or payments.
  
  
• Replacing lost records: A copy is essential when an original return has been misplaced, damaged, or destroyed.

Local and State Relevance

In Delaware, tax records extend beyond personal income tax filings. Businesses in Wilmington or other cities may need past forms for gross receipts, withholding, or partnership returns. Unlike some states, Delaware keeps a structured process for requests, ensuring figures are updated and issued by the Division of Revenue.

Step-by-Step Process to Request Your Delaware Income Tax Documents

The Division of Revenue offers several options for requesting Delaware tax transcripts or copies of old returns. The method you choose depends on how fast you need the records and what information you already have.

Method 1: Email Request (Fastest Option)

• Gather information: Prepare your full legal name, last four digits of your SSN or ITIN, filing status, tax year, and the address listed on the return.
  
  
• Compose your request: Send an email to the Delaware Division of Revenue. For security, include only the last four digits of your SSN.
  
  
• Processing time: It typically takes 7–14 business days. Copies are issued at no charge in most cases.

Method 2: Phone Request

• Contact the Public Service Bureau: If you live in Delaware, call (302) 577-8200 or toll-free at (800) 292-7826.
  
  
• Provide the required details: Be prepared with your tax year, filing status, and refund or payment figures, if known.
  
  
• Processing time: Documents are usually mailed within 7–14 business days after verification.

Method 3: Written Request by Mail

• Write a formal letter: Include your name, SSN (last four digits), address from the original return, tax year requested, and filing status.
• Mail your request: Send it to:
  
  Delaware Division of Revenue
  Office of Public Service
  820 N. French Street
  Wilmington, DE 19801
  
  
• Processing time: It takes 14–21 business days. Requests may take longer if additional verification is required.

Method 4: In-Person Request

• Visit a Revenue office: Locations are available in Wilmington, Dover, and Georgetown.
  
  
• Bring identification: A driver’s license, state ID, or passport is required.
  
  
• Processing time: You can often receive copies the same day, but some requests may take three to five business days if the file requires additional review.

Additional Notes

• Fees: Most individual copies are free of charge. Certified or multiple-year requests may have a fee.
  
  
• Forms and authorizations: If a third party completes the request, Form ATH-RTF is required along with identification.
  
  
• Security: Delaware encourages taxpayers to use secure channels and never include a whole SSN in email.

Required Information and Documentation

When requesting a Delaware tax transcript or return copy, the Division of Revenue requires specific details to verify your identity:

• Full legal name: You must provide the exact name you used when filing your state tax return.
  
  
• Social Security Number or ITIN: For security reasons, you should only provide the last four digits in an email request.
  
  
• Tax year requested: You need to specify the year or the year of the return you want copies of.
  
  
• Filing status: You should state whether you filed as single, married, filed jointly, are head of household, or have another status.
  
  
• Address: If it has changed, you must use the address that appeared on your original return, not your current mailing address.

Additionally, residents may be required to present a driver’s license, state-issued identification, or passport. If someone else completes the request, they must submit a signed Form ATH-RTF and identification for themselves and the taxpayer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Minor errors can cause delays or denials when requesting Delaware tax records. Taxpayers are encouraged to avoid these common issues:

• Using the wrong forms: Some people mistakenly send federal IRS forms, but Delaware only accepts its own forms, such as the ATH-RTF.
  
  
• Providing incomplete information: Requests without the tax year, filing status, or correct name cannot be processed.
  
  
• Submitting full Social Security Numbers in emails: Only the last four digits should be provided for security reasons.
  
  
• Waiting until deadlines approach: Requests can take weeks, and urgent needs may face penalties if documents are missing.
  
  
• Forgetting authorization for third-party requests: Representatives must have a completed authorization form and a valid form of identification.

Troubleshooting Checklist

If your Delaware tax document request is delayed, incomplete, or denied, this checklist can help you respond quickly:

• Verify your filing history: Confirm that you filed a Delaware return for the year you requested.
  
  
• Double-check personal details: Ensure your name, Social Security number, and filing status match precisely with the information on the original return.
  
  
• Confirm your mailing address: You should verify that the address your provided is the same one used on your original filing.
  
  
• Allow for processing time: You need to give at least 7–21 business days, depending on the request method, before following up.
  
  
• Escalate if necessary: You can contact the Public Service Bureau by phone or email and ask to speak with a supervisor if your request remains unresolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can I request Delaware tax returns?

Delaware typically maintains state tax records for seven years from the filing date. Older files may be available, but retrieving them can take additional time and sometimes involve a fee. Residents are encouraged to contact the Division of Revenue if they require copies beyond seven years, as older pages may not be immediately available.

Can I request someone else's tax returns?

Yes, Delaware allows third-party requests, but the government builds the process to ensure privacy. Employers may request employee wage information with proper authorization, while family members must submit Form ATH-RTF and identification. Federal forms are not accepted. All required pages must be completed; otherwise, the request may face a penalty.

What is the difference between a tax transcript and a return copy?

Unlike the IRS, Delaware does not issue separate tax transcripts. Instead, the Division of Revenue provides complete return copies, including forms, withholding details, and credit figures. These documents are issued with the Delaware state seal, making them an official record of income tax filings. Local taxes in other states may vary in their implementation.

How long does it take to receive Delaware tax documents?

Processing times depend on the method used. Requests made by email or phone generally take 7–14 business days, while mailed requests may take 14–21 days. In-person requests at the Wilmington office or another city location may be completed the same day. Times can extend during January or other peak filing months.

Is there a fee for copies of Delaware tax returns?

Most taxpayers receive individual return copies at no charge, but fees may apply for certified copies or multiple years. Rates can change yearly, so residents must confirm the updated costs. Contact the Public Service Bureau to verify the current tax rate for services and expected payment amounts.