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How to request a copy of your previous year tax return

March 16, 2021 Tax Preparation Services
How to request a copy of your previous year tax return – CPA help in Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Northern Virginia AI TAX CONSULTING PLLC | CPA Firm in Northern Virginia

How to request a copy of your previous year tax return

Northern Virginia CPA Guide

Introduction:

If you’ve misplaced your tax return or need it for loan applications, financial aid, or IRS verification, you’re not alone. Many taxpayers eventually need to request prior year tax returns. As a CPA firm serving Fredericksburg and Northern Virginia, we guide individuals and small business owners on the easiest ways to obtain these records — whether through your tax preparer, IRS transcripts, or official IRS forms.

Ways to Request a Prior Year Tax Return

1. Check with Your Tax Preparer or Software

  • If you worked with a CPA, enrolled agent, or used tax software, this should be your first stop.

  • Most preparers, like AI Tax Consulting PLLC in Fredericksburg, VA, securely store client returns for multiple years.

  • Software providers (such as TurboTax or H&R Block) also usually allow downloads for prior returns if you log into your account.

2. Request a Free IRS Tax Transcript

If you can’t get the return itself, an IRS tax transcript may work.

  • What it includes: All major financial line items (like AGI, credits, deductions) but some personal info is masked.

  • Years available: Current year + past 3 years.

  • Delivery methods:

    • Online: Use the IRS Get Transcript Online tool (requires Secure Access verification).

    • By Mail: Request online via Get Transcript by Mail or by calling 800-908-9946.

    • By Form: File Form 4506-T to request other tax records (like wage & income transcripts).

3. Request an Official Copy of Your Tax Return

  • If you need the full return with all schedules (for example, for legal or mortgage purposes), you can request it directly from the IRS.

  • File Form 4506, available at IRS Forms and Publications.

  • Cost: $43 per return.

  • Years available: Current year + prior 6 years.

  • Delivery: Allow time for processing and mailing.

How Long Should You Keep Your Own Tax Records?

The IRS recommends keeping copies of your returns for at least three years, but certain situations may require keeping them longer (e.g., if you file for bad debt deduction, claim a loss from worthless securities, or fail to report income).

Local Help in Fredericksburg & Northern Virginia

If you’re in Northern Virginia, DC, or Maryland and need prior year tax returns for financial aid, business loans, or IRS notices, AI Tax Consulting PLLC can help. We assist clients in securely obtaining records, filing missing returns, and staying compliant.

👉 Contact us today or book an appointment to discuss your tax situation.

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Website: https://aitaxconsulting.com

Assel Ibrayeva, CPA, is the founder of AI Tax Consulting PLLC, a licensed CPA firm based in Northern Virginia serving individuals and businesses nationwide. With over a decade of professional experience in accounting and taxation, she provides trusted expertise in individual tax preparation, small business accounting, bookkeeping, tax planning, IRS representation, and international compliance. Her practice is known for handling complex tax situations, including multi-state filings, crypto and digital asset taxation, foreign reporting, and IRS back tax resolution. Assel works closely with small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals to deliver practical strategies that reduce tax burdens and ensure compliance. Assel earned her Master of Accountancy from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Coastal Carolina University. She is also an Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, helping clients streamline their financial management. Dedicated to providing clear guidance and ethical service, Assel combines technical knowledge with a personalized approach. Her mission is to simplify the tax process and empower clients to make informed financial decisions with confidence.

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