How to Request an Arizona Tax Transcript or Old Return

Applying for a mortgage, renewing financial aid, or starting a business often requires proof of past income and tax compliance. For many taxpayers, the easiest way to provide this proof is by obtaining an Arizona tax transcript or a copy of an old tax return. These official documents confirm your filing history and allow agencies to verify critical information.

A tax transcript summarizes what was reported on your original filing, while a tax return copy is a complete reproduction of the forms you submitted. Depending on your situation, you may need one or the other. Lenders, schools, and government offices often accept transcripts because they show income and adjustments, while certified return copies are sometimes needed in legal or immigration cases.

Although the process can seem technical, requesting these records is straightforward once you know where to go. Whether you’re working with the Arizona Department of Revenue for state documents or the IRS for federal transcripts, both agencies provide clear instructions. With the proper request, you’ll receive the information you need in a secure and timely manner.

What Is an Arizona Tax Transcript?

An Arizona tax transcript is a summary of your state tax return, showing reported income, deductions, and adjustments without all schedules or attachments. Unlike a full return copy, it provides a faster way for agencies to verify filing details, often required for loans, financial aid, immigration, or legal matters.

Arizona Tax Return vs. Federal Tax Return

Arizona State Tax Documents

• Processed by ADOR: The Arizona Department of Revenue manages all state-level requests for transcripts and return copies.
  
  
• Forms included: Common filings are Form 140, 140EZ, and 140PY, along with their supporting schedules.
  
  
• Uses: These documents are typically required for state-based financial applications, scholarships, or legal matters.
  
  
• Request method: Taxpayers must submit the Arizona Form 450 by mail, along with the correct payment, to receive copies.

Federal Tax Documents

• Processed by IRS: The Internal Revenue Service provides access to federal tax transcripts and complete return copies.
  
  
• Forms included: The most frequently requested documents are Form 1040 and its related schedules.
  
  
• Uses: Federal transcripts are widely required for mortgages, FAFSA, immigration applications, and small business loans.
  
  
• Request method: Taxpayers can request them through an IRS online account, by mailing Form 4506-T, or by phone.

How to Request an Arizona Tax Transcript

Step 1: Determine Which Document You Need

• Uncertified copies: These cost $5 per tax year and are generally sufficient for financial aid, loan applications, or personal records.
  
  
• Certified copies: These cost $7 per tax year and include an official seal, which is required for legal proceedings or certain immigration cases.

Step 2: Download and Complete Arizona Form 450

• Find the form: Arizona Form 450 can be downloaded directly from the Arizona Department of Revenue website.
  
  
• Provide details: List your full legal name, Social Security number, tax period requested, and current mailing address.
  
  
• Sign and date: The form must include your signature and the date. If the return is filed jointly, both spouses must sign it.

Step 3: Submit Payment and Mail Your Request

• Prepare payment: A check or money order must be included, made payable to the Arizona Department of Revenue, as cash and card payments are not accepted.
  
  
• Mail the request: Send your completed form and payment to the ADOR Copy Desk at the official mailing address provided on the form instructions.
  
  
• Keep proof: Your canceled check or money order stub serves as your receipt, so keep it for your records.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• Processing time: Standard processing takes about 10 business days after ADOR receives your request.
  
  
• Delivery method: Documents are mailed to the address you provided. Ensure it is accurate and up-to-date.
  
  
• Follow up if delayed: If you have not received your documents within 15 business days, you should contact ADOR for an update.

How to Request IRS Transcripts Online or by Mail

Option 1: Request a Transcript Online with an IRS Online Account

• Visit the IRS website: Go to IRS.gov and select the “Get Transcript Online” service.
  
  
• Set up or sign in: You will need to create an IRS online account or log in to an existing one to continue.
  
  
• Complete verification: The system may require you to verify that you are human by completing security steps, such as confirming your phone number or reviewing the security of your connection, before proceeding.
  
  
• Access your transcript: Once verification is successful, you can view, print, or download the transcript immediately for your records.

Option 2: Request a Transcript by Mail

• Use Form 4506-T: Taxpayers can download Form 4506-T, fill it out with the required information, and mail it to the IRS processing center listed in the instructions.
  
  
• Provide correct details: Ensure your name, Social Security number, address, and tax year are complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
  
  
• Expect delivery time: Transcripts requested by mail usually arrive within 5 to 10 business days at the address the IRS has on file.

Option 3: Request a Transcript by Phone

• Call the IRS line: Dial 1-800-908-9946 to access the automated transcript request system, available 24 hours a day.
  
  
• Prepare your information: You will need your Social Security number, filing status, and mailing address to complete the request.
  
  
• Receive documents by mail: The IRS will mail the transcript to the address they have on file, usually within 5 to 10 business days.

Common Mistakes When Requesting a Tax Transcript

• Missing signatures: Many requests are delayed or rejected because taxpayers forget to sign the form. If the return was filed jointly, both spouses must sign it.
  
  
• Incorrect tax years: Requests often fail when the wrong year is listed, so double-check the specific filing period before sending your form.
  
  
• Incorrect payment amount: Arizona requires exact payment ($5 for uncertified copies and $7 for certified copies); any errors will result in processing delays.
  
  
• Choosing the wrong transcript type: Lenders usually want a tax return transcript, but taxpayers sometimes request an account transcript, which does not meet their needs.
  
  
• Requesting too soon after filing: If you recently filed, it may take two to three weeks for electronic filings or up to eight weeks for mailed returns before transcripts are available.
  
  
• Verification issues online: IRS transcript requests may be delayed if you are unable to complete the online account verification steps or if the system requires a review of your connection security before proceeding.

Troubleshooting Checklist

• Check form details: Ensure names, Social Security numbers, addresses, and tax years match your original filing.
  
  
• Confirm payment accuracy: Write the correct amount and ensure it is payable to the proper agency.
  
  
• Allow enough time: Wait 10 business days for Arizona and up to two weeks for IRS transcripts.
  
  
• Follow up properly: Contact ADOR or the IRS if your request takes longer than expected.
  
  
• Resolve online issues: Refresh the page or retry if the IRS site displays verification errors.
  
  
• Resubmit if rejected: Correct the errors listed in the notice and send the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to receive an Arizona tax transcript?

The Arizona Department of Revenue typically processes transcript requests within 10 business days after receiving your form and payment. Mail delivery may extend the wait. If 15 business days pass without receiving your transcript, contact ADOR directly to confirm your request, verify details, and ensure that there are no issues delaying processing.

Can I obtain an Arizona tax transcript online, similar to an IRS transcript?

Arizona does not currently provide online access to state transcripts. Taxpayers must download Arizona Form 450, complete it with accurate information, and mail it with the required payment. By contrast, the IRS allows transcripts to be accessed through an online account, where you can verify your identity, view, and print instantly.

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

A tax transcript is a summary showing most line items from your original filing, including any later adjustments. A tax return copy is an exact reproduction of your filed forms, including all attachments. Lenders and schools commonly accept transcripts, while certified copies may be required for use in courts or immigration proceedings.

How do I request an IRS transcript if I'm unable to use my online account?

If you cannot complete IRS online account verification, you can still obtain transcripts by mailing Form 4506-T or calling the automated transcript line at 1-800-908-9946. The IRS will mail transcripts to the address on file within five to ten business days, allowing you to access your information without needing to use the online system.

Can someone else request my Arizona or IRS transcript on my behalf?

Yes, another person can request your transcript, but they must have a signed Power of Attorney (POA). The IRS requires Form 2848 for authorization, while Arizona uses its own POA form. Without this documentation, agencies cannot release your tax information. Always keep a copy of the authorization for your records.