How to get my previous tax return copy when my preparer won't respond?

Yes, you have a few options to get a copy of your tax return from the IRS: 1. Request a transcript online through the IRS website - go to IRS.gov and use the "Get Transcript" tool. You can get different types of transcripts (tax return transcript shows most line items, account transcript shows basic data). Usually available immediately if you can verify your identity online. 2. Use Form 4506-T to request a transcript by mail (takes 5-10 business days). 3. Use Form 4506 to request an actual copy of your filed return (costs $43 and takes up to 75 days - probably too slow for your mortgage deadline). For your mortgage application, a transcript should be sufficient - most lenders accept these. The transcript is free, and if you can create an online account, you can get it immediately. If your mortgage lender needs the actual full return with all schedules, you might need to explain the situation and see if they'll accept the transcript instead.

I was in almost the exact same situation last summer. Trying to get a mortgage and my tax guy went MIA. Honestly, the IRS website was such a pain and I couldn't verify my identity online. I found this tool called taxr.ai and it was a game changer. It helped me understand exactly what was on my transcript and formatted everything the way my lender needed it. Saved me so much stress and my loan officer actually commented on how organized everything was. Check it out: https://taxr.ai

After my previous tax preparer went out of business without telling anyone, I was in the same boat. I tried calling the IRS for weeks but could never get through (always "due to high call volume" BS). Finally used the Claimyr app (claimyr.com) and got connected to an actual human at the IRS in like 20 minutes. They helped me get my transcript and explained everything. Best money I ever spent considering I was about to lose my mind sitting on hold for hours and getting nowhere.

Did your preparer e-file for you? If so, try contacting the software company they used. I used to work at a tax prep place and sometimes clients could get copies directly from the software company if they knew which one was used.

this exact thing happened to me!!! my tax guy was actually arrested for fraud 💀 i couldn't get my returns and freaked out. ended up having to file form 4506. it took about 3 weeks to get my stuff back, but was pretty simple process.

Is it possible your preparer had you sign a Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization)? If so, they might still have access to your transcripts even if they're ignoring you, which is concerning. You should consider revoking that authorization by submitting a new 8821 with the revocation box checked. Just a thought as you move forward with getting your own transcripts.

the system is completely broken. last year i spent 6 months trying to get a copy of my return from 2020 and eventually gave up. its freaking ridiculous that we cant just login to an account and see all our tax info in one place like a normal country would have. the irs is still running on technology from 1982 🤡

I work in mortgage lending. We accept tax transcripts directly from the IRS in lieu of full returns. In fact, we often require them anyway as verification. The online Get Transcript tool is fastest, but if you can't verify your identity online (which happens a lot), we can request the transcripts for you with your signed permission using Form 4506-T. Ask your lender about this option - it might actually work out better for both of you.

Not to freak you out, but have you checked that your returns were actually filed? I had a super sketchy preparer once who took my money and then never filed my return. I would double check with the IRS that they have your return on file before you waste time trying to get a copy of something that might not exist.

Go to IRS.gov, create account, download transcript. Takes 15 minutes tops if you have all your verification info handy (credit card, loan account number, etc). Problem solved. Been doing this for years.

Whatever you do, don't pay for those online tax record retrieval services. Complete scams. Stick with IRS.gov or the official channels mentioned by others here.

Before you go through all this trouble with the IRS, have you tried stopping by your tax preparer's office in person? Sometimes these small businesses are terrible at returning calls/emails but will help you right away if you show up. Just a thought.

Future tip: ALWAYS keep digital and paper copies of your tax returns for at least 7 years. I learned this lesson the hard way too.

im literally an accountant and getting transcripts is a NIGHTMARE even for me. the IRS website never verifies my identity so i have to mail in forms and wait forever. last time i tried getting a transcript for a client i used claimyr.com to get an agent on the phone and they were able to help immediately. talking to an agent got the transcript faxed over in 20 minutes instead of waiting weeks. just my two cents.