At this time of the year, some tax payers are seeking their Identity Protection PINs or are in need of a tax transcript. For inquiries about IP PIN and transcripts, use the online service options on IRS.gov:
Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
If you lost a CP01A letter and need an IP PIN, you can go to ‘Get an IP PIN‘ or ‘Retrieve Your IP PIN‘ on IRS.gov for retrieval options. Users must validate their identities. If unable to validate, you should call the Identity Theft toll-free line to have the information mailed. If you’ve moved after Jan. 1, 2017, you will need to file a paper return without an IP PIN.
Tax Transcripts
If you need a tax transcript, use www.IRS.gov/transcript. The ‘IRS Get Transcript’ tool allows taxpayers who can validate their identities to view and download transcripts. Alternatively, transcripts can be sent by mail in five to 10 days. Taxpayers may also order a transcript by mail by calling the automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946. Tax professionals with a power of attorney form on file also may access their clients’ transcripts via e-Services.
Transcript Types
The IRS offers the following transcript types at no charge to you:
- Tax Account Transcript – shows basic data such as return type, marital status, adjusted gross income, taxable income and all payment types. It also shows changes made after you filed your original return. This transcript is available for the current tax year and up to 10 prior years using Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T. When using Get Transcript by Mail or phone, you’re limited to the current tax year and returns processed during the prior three years.
- Record of Account Transcript – combines the tax return and tax account transcripts above into one complete transcript. This transcript is available for the current tax year and returns processed during the prior three years using Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T.
- Wage and Income Transcript – shows data from information returns we receive such as Forms W-2, 1099, 1098 and Form 5498, IRA Contribution Information. Current tax year information may not be complete until July. This transcript is available for up to 10 prior years using Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T.
- Verification of Non-filing Letter – provides proof that the IRS has no record of a filed Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ for the year you requested. It doesn’t indicate whether you were required to file a return for that year. This letter is available after June 15 for the current tax year or anytime for the prior three tax years using Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T. You must use Form 4506-T if you need a letter for tax years older than the prior three years.
Note: A transcript isn’t a photocopy of your return. If you need a copy of your original return, complete and mail Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, along with the applicable fee.
Refer to Get Transcript frequently asked questions for more information.
Reminder: All Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) nationwide now operate by appointment. Most questions can be answered online at IRS.gov without visiting a TAC. Taxpayers who need in-person assistance can make an appointment online.
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