Form 4506 Request for Copy of Tax Return Definition and Filing

What is Form 4506?

Form 4506 is a document used by taxpayers to request a copy of their tax return from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This form is particularly useful for individuals who need to obtain copies of their previous tax returns for various reasons, such as applying for a loan, applying for financial aid, or resolving tax-related issues.

By submitting Form 4506, taxpayers can request transcripts of their tax returns for the current year and the previous six years. The transcripts provided by the IRS include most line items from the original tax return, but they do not include any attachments or schedules that were submitted with the original return.

Obtaining copies of tax returns through Form 4506 can be a valuable resource for individuals who may have misplaced their original returns or need to provide proof of income for various purposes. It allows taxpayers to access their tax information in an official capacity directly from the IRS.

When filling out Form 4506, taxpayers must provide their personal information, including their name, Social Security number, and current address. They must also specify the tax year or years for which they are requesting copies of their tax returns.

Definition and Purpose

Form 4506 is an official document issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. Its purpose is to request a copy of a previously filed tax return. This form is commonly used by individuals, businesses, and organizations to obtain copies of their tax returns for various reasons.

Form 4506 is particularly useful for individuals who have lost or misplaced their tax returns and need them for important financial transactions, such as applying for a mortgage, student loan, or government assistance. It can also be used by businesses and organizations to provide proof of income or to resolve any discrepancies in their tax records.

By filing Form 4506, individuals and entities can ensure that they have access to their tax return information whenever needed. It serves as a valuable tool for maintaining accurate financial records and complying with legal requirements.

It is important to note that there is a fee associated with requesting a copy of a tax return using Form 4506. The fee may vary depending on the type of tax return requested and the method of delivery (electronic or paper). It is advisable to check the current fee schedule provided by the IRS before submitting the form.

Filing Form 4506

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file Form 4506:

1. Obtain a copy of Form 4506 from the IRS website or your local IRS office.
2. Fill out the form completely and accurately. Make sure to provide all the necessary information, including your name, Social Security number, and the tax year for which you are requesting a copy of your return.
3. Indicate the purpose for which you need the copy of your tax return. This could be for personal records, loan applications, or other financial transactions.
4. Include the appropriate fee with your form. As of [current year], the fee for requesting a copy of your tax return is [fee amount]. Make sure to check the IRS website for the most up-to-date fee information.
5. Sign and date the form. Unsigned forms will not be processed by the IRS.
6. Mail the completed form and fee to the address provided on the form. It is important to send it to the correct address to ensure timely processing.
7. Wait for the IRS to process your request. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of requests received by the IRS.
8. Once your request is processed, the IRS will send you a copy of your tax return.

It is important to note that Form 4506 is only used to request copies of previously filed tax returns. If you need a transcript of your tax return, you will need to file a different form, such as Form 4506-T.

By following these steps and providing all the necessary information, you can successfully file Form 4506 and obtain a copy of your tax return from the IRS.

Process and Requirements

When filing Form 4506, there are certain processes and requirements that individuals need to be aware of. These steps ensure that the request for a copy of a tax return is processed correctly and in a timely manner.

1. Complete Form 4506

The first step in the process is to complete Form 4506 accurately. This form requires individuals to provide their personal information, including their name, Social Security number, and address. It also requires the specific tax year or years for which the tax return copy is being requested. It is important to double-check all the information provided to avoid any delays or errors in processing.

2. Choose the Appropriate Option

Form 4506 offers two options for requesting a copy of a tax return. The first option is to request a copy of the tax return (Form 1040 series) for a specific year. The second option is to request a transcript of the tax return, which includes most line items from the original tax return. Individuals should select the option that best suits their needs.

3. Pay the Required Fee

There is a fee associated with filing Form 4506. As of [current year], the fee for each tax return copy is $50. The fee for each tax return transcript is $43. The payment should be made in the form of a check or money order payable to the “United States Treasury.” It is important to include the payment with the completed form to avoid any delays in processing.

4. Mail the Form

Once the form is completed and the payment is enclosed, individuals should mail the Form 4506 to the appropriate address. The address can be found in the instructions provided with the form. It is important to use the correct address to ensure that the request reaches the appropriate department for processing.

5. Allow Sufficient Processing Time

After mailing the form, individuals should allow sufficient processing time for the request to be completed. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of requests received by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is recommended to allow at least 75 calendar days for the request to be processed. Individuals can check the status of their request by calling the IRS or using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website.

By following these steps and meeting the requirements, individuals can successfully file Form 4506 and obtain a copy of their tax return. It is important to keep copies of all documents and correspondence related to the request for future reference.