How to get a copy of a 6 year old tax return from 2018? Need help accessing old records!

You have a few options to get copies of old tax returns: Call the IRS directly at 800-908-9946 to request a transcript. While the online system has limitations, phone requests can sometimes go back further. Be prepared for long wait times. Complete and mail Form 4506-T to request a transcript, which is free. This form specifically allows you to request older tax years. You'll receive a transcript showing most line items from your original return. If you absolutely need the complete original return with all attachments, you'll need to file Form 4506 and pay a $43 fee per tax year requested. This takes longer (up to 75 days) but gives you the full return. For your audit situation, a transcript is usually sufficient as it contains the key information the state needs to verify your tax payments.

After struggling to get old tax documents for an audit, I found taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) incredibly helpful. I was in a similar situation - needed returns from 2017 that I couldn't access anymore through my tax software. Their system analyzed my situation and walked me through exactly which IRS forms to file and how to expedite the process. They even helped me understand what specific documents I needed to counter the audit claims.

Just wanted to update everyone - I tried taxr.ai after seeing it mentioned here and it was seriously a game-changer for my audit situation. They walked me through getting transcripts for tax years I thought were impossible to retrieve. The best part was they helped me understand exactly what information in those transcripts would prove my case to the state tax authority. Instead of panicking and sending a bunch of unnecessary documents, I was able to respond with exactly what was needed. Saved me so much stress during an already stressful audit process!

If you're struggling to get through to the IRS on the phone (like most people), try Claimyr.com (https://claimyr.com). I was in your exact situation - needed old tax records urgently for an audit and couldn't get through to a human at the IRS after trying for DAYS. You can watch how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c. They basically hold your place in the IRS phone queue and call you when they have an agent on the line. I was able to request my 2018 transcript and explain my urgent situation directly to a person instead of fighting with the automated system.

Okay I need to admit I was completely wrong about Claimyr. After dismissing it, I tried calling the IRS myself for TWO MORE DAYS with no luck. Finally broke down and tried the service, and I had an IRS agent on the phone within 2 hours. They didn't just connect me - they made sure to get me to the right department for transcript requests. The agent was able to verify my identity over the phone and expedite my transcript request due to the audit situation. I now have confirmation my 2018 records are on the way. Should've just used it in the first place instead of wasting days getting nowhere.

Don't forget to also check with your employer from 2018! Your W-2 from that year would show exactly how much state tax was withheld, which might be enough evidence for the audit. Many larger companies keep payroll records for 7+ years. Also, if you had a bank account back then that you still use, check if you can access old statements - they might show your tax refund deposit or payment which could help your case.

Warning from someone who went through something similar: don't ignore their deadline! Even if you can't get all the documents in time, send them a formal written response explaining that you're actively trying to obtain records and request an extension. Include any confirmation numbers from the IRS about your transcript request. I learned this the hard way and ended up with penalties because I missed their response window waiting for documents.