This article in AIM Financial’s IRS tax-form series is IRS Form 4506 — Request for Copy of Tax Return. Unlike Form 4506-T, which generally requests a transcript, Form 4506 is used to request an actual copy of a previously filed tax return when available. This guide explains the process, potential fees, and why taxpayers in Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, and West Michigan may need copies of older returns.

Have you lost a previous year’s tax return? Do you need an actual copy of a filed federal income tax return for a mortgage application, legal matter, financial review, or personal records? The Internal Revenue Service provides a process for requesting copies of previously filed returns.

IRS Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, is used to request an actual copy of a tax return and its attachments from the IRS. This is different from requesting a tax transcript, which summarizes information from IRS records.

For taxpayers in Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, and throughout West Michigan, knowing which document to request can save time and help avoid unnecessary paperwork when preparing taxes or responding to a financial institution.

What Is IRS Form 4506?

Form 4506 allows a taxpayer or an appropriately authorized person to request a copy of a previously filed federal tax return. Depending on the return requested and IRS record availability, the copy may include the original return and attachments, such as schedules and Forms W-2 that were submitted with it.

You may need Form 4506 if you want to see the return as it was originally filed rather than a summary of the reported information.

The IRS currently lists Form 4506 with an April 2025 revision. Its instructions state that copies of individual Forms 1040-series returns are generally available for seven years from the filing date before they are destroyed under applicable law. Other types of returns may be available for longer periods. <Cite refs={[“turn839574search19″,”turn621814view0”]}/>

When Might You Need a Copy of Your Tax Return?

1. Applying for a Mortgage or Other Loan

A lender may ask you for tax documentation when reviewing a mortgage, refinancing application, business loan, or other financial request.

Before paying for a full copy of your return, ask the lender whether a tax transcript will meet its requirements. Many lenders accept IRS transcripts, which can generally be obtained without the fee associated with a copy of the return.

If the lender specifically requires a copy of the original return, Form 4506 may be appropriate.

2. Preparing a Current-Year Tax Return

Sometimes, information from a prior return is needed to prepare a later return. You may want to check how income was reported, review deductions, confirm filing details, or understand how a tax issue was handled in a previous year.

If you already have a transcript or a saved copy from your tax preparer, you may not need to request another copy from the IRS.

3. Resolving a Tax Issue

A taxpayer dealing with an IRS notice, an audit, or a question about a previous filing may want a copy of the return originally submitted.

Having the original return available can help you compare reported information with IRS notices and supporting records. However, if you need information about later payments or adjustments, an IRS account transcript may provide additional details that are not included in the original return.

4. Replacing Lost Tax Records

Tax returns are useful financial records. They may help document income, deductions, and other details when applying for certain financial products or responding to questions about past filings.

Keeping electronic copies of filed returns and supporting documents in a secure location can make future tax preparation easier.

How to Complete IRS Form 4506 in Plain English

Form 4506 requires identifying information and details about the return you want the IRS to provide. Follow the current form instructions carefully.

Step 1: Enter the name shown on the original return.

Provide the name and taxpayer identification number associated with the return. For a joint return, enter the first-listed taxpayer and the spouse information requested by the form.

Step 2: Enter your current address.

Provide your current mailing address. If your address differs from the one shown on your last filed return, complete the previous-address section as instructed.

Step 3: Identify a third-party recipient if applicable.

If you want the IRS to mail the return to a lender or another third party, enter the recipient’s requested information. Check all entries carefully before signing, because this directs confidential tax information to another recipient.

Step 4: Identify the tax return.

Enter the return form number you are requesting, such as Form 1040 for an individual federal income tax return or the applicable business return form.

The form generally allows only one return type per request. If you need different types of returns, you may need to submit separate Forms 4506.

Step 5: Enter the tax year or period.

Specify the ending date of the tax year or period requested using the format shown on the form. Verify the year before submitting the request.

Step 6: Calculate the fee.

The April 2025 Form 4506 specifies a fee of $30 per return requested. Calculate the total based on the number of returns and follow the current instructions for payment. Confirm the fee on the latest official form before mailing your request. <Cite refs={[“turn839574search19″,”turn839574search21”]}/>

Step 7: Sign and submit the request.

The taxpayer or an appropriately authorized signer must sign the form. For a joint return, at least one spouse must sign according to the instructions.

The IRS states that Form 4506 must be received within 120 days of the signature date. Use the current form instructions to determine where to mail the completed request and payment.

How Much Does It Cost, and How Long Does It Take?

The April 2025 Form 4506 specifies a $30 fee for each requested return. Because fees and procedures can change, verify the amount on the current official form before submitting payment.

The IRS advises taxpayers to allow up to 75 calendar days for a copy of a tax return to be provided. Actual processing times may vary, and some older returns may not be available.

If you need the information quickly, check whether an online tax transcript will satisfy your purpose. Transcripts are generally available free of charge through IRS transcript services, although they are not identical to copies of the original returns. <Cite refs={[“turn839574search9″,”turn839574search2”]}/>

Form 4506 vs. Form 4506-T: Which Should You Use?

Feature	Form 4506	Form 4506-T
Main purpose	Request a copy of a previously filed return	Request specified tax transcripts
Document provided	Copy of the return and applicable attachments, if available	Summary of specified information from IRS records
Fee	The April 2025 form lists $30 per return	Generally free for taxpayer transcript requests
Typical use	Need the original return copy	Need income, return, or account information

The best option depends on the reason for your request. If you need the actual return, use Form 4506. If you only need to verify reported income or review tax account information, Form 4506-T or the IRS online transcript service may be sufficient.

Contact AIM Financial for Tax Preparation Help in West Michigan

Finding old tax documents can be frustrating, especially when a lender, government agency, or the IRS requests information from a previous year. Requesting the correct document can help prevent unnecessary delays.

AIM Financial assists individuals and businesses in Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, and throughout West Michigan with tax preparation needs and tax-document questions. If you need help organizing your tax records, reviewing prior-year information, or preparing a federal or Michigan income tax return, contact AIM Financial to discuss your needs.

Before ordering a copy of a return, determine whether you need the complete original document or whether a transcript will meet your requirements. That simple step can save time and money.

Visit the official IRS website to obtain the current Form 4506 and filing instructions.

AIM Financial — helping West Michigan taxpayers stay organized and make informed tax decisions.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Fees, availability, and processing times are subject to IRS rules and may change. Always check the latest official IRS form and instructions before submitting a request.