What is a Form 4506-T & How We Can Make It Happen

For a variety of reasons, taxpayers can find themselves in need of tax information from prior tax periods. The process for finding this information is simpler than one might think. The IRS Form 4506-T is the tool used to retrieve tax forms and transcripts from previous years.

Submission

IRS Form 4506-T is not the form used to acquire a past return; IRS Form 4506 is used for previous returns. It is only used for obtaining copies of past tax forms and transcripts. It can be used to retrieve the following forms: 1040, 1120, 1065, W-2 and 1099 and is good for 120 days from the signature date. Once the form has been submitted to the IRS, it can take from ten to sixty days to receive the requested information. The past four tax years can be requested.

Third Party Authorization

The IRS Form 4506-T can also be used to authorize a third party to receive past tax material. It is important to note that the IRS has no control over, and is not responsible for, what the authorized third party does with the information.

Reasons for Rejection

Mistakes and oversights can cause costly delays in getting the request processed. A common mistake is that the address on the form does not match the address for the tax period requested. The addresses can be confusing. The address on line number four should match the tax year for the paperwork the form is requesting. Also, make sure all information is legible and that the document is signed and dated.

As with all government forms, filling out the IRS Form 4506-T can appear daunting at first. If the taxpayer downloads the form from the IRS website, it will come with line by line instructions and general instructions for submitting. Mailing addresses and fax numbers are also be provided.