Downloading a fresh copy of last year’s tax return can feel intimidating, but it only takes a few minutes once you know where to look. In this guide we answer “how do I download a copy of my previous year tax return”, lay out every free and paid path you can take, and share pro tips to keep your sensitive data safe.
Need your old tax return? Call 1.866.409.5111 and learn step-by-step how to download a copy of your previous year tax return fast, free, and securely.
Why you might need your prior-year return
Most taxpayers look for an old return because they:
- need their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) to e-file this year
- are applying for a loan or financial aid
- got an IRS notice and must check a line item
- switched tax software and want a starting point
- lost the paper file in a move or hard-drive crash
What you’ll need before you start
Gather these items so you can sail through identity checks on the first try.
- Social Security number (and spouse’s, if filing jointly)
- The filing status used last year (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
- The mailing address shown on that old return
- Access to email and mobile phone for two-factor codes
- A recent credit card, mortgage, or auto-loan number for IRS verification
1. Use IRS Get Transcript Online (fast & free)
The quickest official answer to how do I download a copy of my previous year tax return is the IRS Get Transcript Online tool.
- Create or sign in to your IRS account.
- Verify your identity with photo ID and a financial account.
- Select Tax Return Transcript for the year you need.
- Download the PDF and save it to a secure folder.
Pro tip: A transcript satisfies most lenders and shows the key numbers, but it is not an exact copy. If you need the full 1040 with schedules, skip to Step 3 below.
2. Check your tax-software or preparer portal
If you used TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, FreeTaxUSA, or similar software:
- Log in with the same username.
- Go to Past Returns or Documents.
- Choose the tax year and click Download/Print.
If a CPA or enrolled agent filed for you, send them a secure message. Most pros archive returns for at least seven years and can email a link the same day.
3. Order an exact copy from the IRS (Form 4506)
When you absolutely must have a line-for-line duplicate—including W-2s and 1099s—request a copy return:
- Download Form 4506 from IRS.gov.
- Check the year, include the $30 fee, and mail it.
Expect delivery in 6–8 weeks, so choose this route only when a transcript won’t do.
4. Retrieve it from employer portals
Many HR systems like ADP or Workday keep your W-2 package. Combine those PDFs with tax software to reconstruct the return if you never saved it.
5. Call the IRS if all else fails
Phone IRS customer service at 1.866.409.5111. For disaster victims or identity-theft cases, agents can expedite or waive fees.
Security best practices
- Encrypt the PDF or store it in a password-manager vault.
- Never email an unencrypted tax return.
- Shred any printed pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a deadline to download last year’s return?
No. Transcripts are available online for the current year and the past three; older years require a mailed request.
Will the transcript show my W-2 income?
Yes, but if you need the actual W-2, request a Wage and Income Transcript in the same portal.
Can I get a copy for free if I can’t afford the fee?
Victims of a federally declared disaster or identity theft can have the $30 fee waived.
When someone asks how do I download a copy of my previous year tax return, the answer depends on urgency and precision. For a quick AGI check, an IRS transcript or software download gets it done in minutes. For notarized legal filings, order an exact copy with Form 4506. Safeguard the file once you have it—and if you hit a snag, dial 1.866.409.5111 for live assistance.
Still wondering how do I download a copy of my previous year tax return? Review the steps above or call 1.866.409.5111 and reclaim your records today.