IRS Tax Transcript Request
How to request an IRS transcript for free, which type you need, how long each method takes, and what the codes on an account transcript mean.
IRS transcript code decoder
Five free transcript types
- Tax return transcript: most lines from your original return as filed; current and three prior years. Usually what mortgage lenders want.
- Tax account transcript: filing status, taxable income, payments and any changes after filing; current and nine prior years in your IRS Online Account.
- Record of account: the return and account transcripts combined; current and three prior years.
- Wage and income transcript: data from W-2s, 1098s, 1099s and 5498s the IRS received; the current year is usually available from the first week of February.
- Verification of non-filing letter: proof that no return was processed for a year.
How to request an IRS transcript
Transcripts are free. The fastest route is the IRS Online Account (view and download instantly). You can also use Get Transcript by Mail or call 800-908-9946 (allow 5 to 10 calendar days), or send Form 4506-T for other years and types. Never pay a website to get one.
Decoding account transcript codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 150 | Return filed and tax assessed |
| 290 | Additional tax assessed |
| 420 | Return selected for examination (audit indicator) |
| 421 | Examination closed |
| 570 | Additional account action pending; refund on hold |
| 571 | Hold from code 570 released |
| 766 | Credit to your account (for example a refundable credit) |
| 768 | Earned income credit |
| 806 | Credit for withholding (W-2 and 1099) |
| 826 | Overpayment transferred to another tax year or debt |
| 846 | Refund issued |
| 898 | Refund applied to a non-IRS debt (Treasury Offset Program) |
| 971 | Notice or letter issued, or other account action |
| 977 | Amended return filed |
Codes are from the IRS's internal Document 6209. Waiting on a refund? Check tax refund estimator.
Common questions
How do I request an IRS tax transcript?
Free through your IRS Online Account, by mail, by calling 800-908-9946, or with Form 4506-T.
What does code 846 mean on an IRS transcript?
Refund issued.
What does code 570 mean?
Additional account action pending, which holds your refund until it's resolved (often by code 571).
Sources
- IRS: Transcript types for individuals and ways to order them
- IRS Document 6209, Section 8A: master file codes
More paycheck and tax calculators: IRS Offer in Compromise · IRS Payment Plans · Itemized Deductions · K1 Tax Form
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General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.