How to Get Your IRS Tax Transcript Online

Download a record of past tax returns for a mortgage application, student aid form, or your own records.

In this guide (5 steps):

1.Go to the IRS website
2.Create or sign in to ID.me
3.Pick the transcript you need
4.Download the PDF
5.Know the alternatives

Go to the IRS website

~15s

Open a web browser and go to irs.gov/transcript. Click "Get Transcript Online." Make sure the web address is exactly irs.gov — scammers often run look-alike sites.

Create or sign in to ID.me

~15s

The IRS uses a service called ID.me to verify your identity. You will upload a photo of your driver's license and take a selfie so ID.me can match them.

Pick the transcript you need

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Once signed in, you will see several transcript types. For most lenders, pick "Return Transcript" and then the tax year they asked about. For income questions, pick "Wage and Income Transcript."

Download the PDF

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The transcript opens as a PDF in your browser. Save it to your computer and either print it or email it to whoever asked for it.

Know the alternatives

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If online verification does not work, you can request a transcript by mail at irs.gov/transcript — it arrives in 5 to 10 days. You can also call 800-908-9946 for a mailed transcript.

You Did It!

You've completed: How to Get Your IRS Tax Transcript Online

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An IRS tax transcript is an official summary of your past tax return. Lenders often ask for one when you apply for a mortgage, and the FAFSA financial aid form asks for one too.

You can get a transcript free at IRS.gov in about 15 minutes — no need to request it by mail or pay a service.

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