If you ever find yourself scrambling to find a copy of a previously-filed federal income tax return, getting the information may be easier than you think.  There are several options offered by the IRS for obtaining information by phone or mail from Forms 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ. 

A tax return transcript or a tax account transcript can be requested by calling 1-800-829-1040 or by mailing Form 4506T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return). There is no fee for a transcript request and it takes about two weeks for delivery.

The tax return transcript does not reflect any subsequent changes made to the tax return by you or an IRS representative.  However, it could meet lending institutions’ requirements for mortgage and student loan applications.  Be sure to ask your lender in advance.

A request for a tax account transcript produces a document that shows any later adjustments made by either you or the IRS after the tax return was filed.  It also shows basic taxpayer data including marital status, type of return filed, adjusted gross income, and taxable income.

If you want an actual copy of a tax return, mail Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return). There is a $57 charge for each tax return copy requested.   If you use a paid-preparer such as Metcalf Hodges, be sure to ask for their help before choosing any of these options as they may be able to provide you with a copy of your tax return.