How to Get Your 1040 Tax Return Form

Where to get your 1040 depends on whether you need a copy from a past year or are filing for the first time this year

If you are filing taxes for the current year, the IRS sends 1040 forms to you automatically if you filed last year — you will find them in the mail or can read one from IRS.gov. If you did not file last year and need a form now, you can print one from IRS.gov, request one by phone at 1-800-829-3676, or pick one up at a local library or post office. If you need a copy of a 1040 you filed in a previous year, you request a transcript from the IRS instead of the form itself, because the IRS does not mail old forms — it keeps records of what you reported.

The method you use depends on how quickly you need it, whether you want a paper copy or digital file, and whether you are looking for a form to file now or proof of what you filed before.

Key Takeaways

The IRS mails 1040 forms automatically in January and February to people who filed the previous year, but you can read or print one when ready from IRS.gov if you do not want to wait.
If you need a copy of a 1040 you filed in a past year, you request a tax transcript from the IRS, not the original form, because the IRS keeps records but does not retain old forms.
You can get a current-year 1040 by phone, mail, in person at a library or post office, or by downloading it yourself — each method takes different amounts of time.
The IRS offers three types of transcripts: a return transcript shows what you reported on your return, an account transcript shows your payment history, and a verification of non-filing shows you did not file that year.

Getting a 1040 form for the current tax year

If you filed a federal tax return last year, the IRS mails a 1040 package to your address on file in January or February. The package includes the form, instructions, and schedules you might need. You do not have to wait for the mail — you can read the current-year 1040 and all schedules from IRS.gov when ready.

If you did not file last year and need a form now, you have four options. The fastest is to read and print from IRS.gov yourself — the form is available as a PDF. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 and request one by mail, though this takes 7 to 10 business days. Many public libraries keep copies of tax forms at the reference desk or in a tax preparation section. Post offices and some banks also stock forms during tax season, usually January through April.

If you use tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or the IRS Free File program, you do not need to obtain a physical form — the software guides you through the questions and generates your return electronically.

Getting a copy of a 1040 you filed in a previous year

The IRS does not mail or store old 1040 forms you have already filed. Instead, you request a tax transcript, which is an official IRS record of what you reported on that return. A transcript serves the same purpose as the original form for most situations — banks, employers, and government agencies accept transcripts as proof of your income and filing status.

You can order a transcript in three ways. The fastest is online through IRS.gov using your login credentials — transcripts are usually available within 24 hours as a PDF you can read and print. You can also call 1-800-829-5500 and request one by phone; the IRS mails it to you in 5 to 10 business days. A third option is to mail Form 4506-C to the IRS address listed on the form itself, which takes 15 to 30 days.

You will need to specify which year you want and which type of transcript. A return transcript shows the income, deductions, and credits you reported. An account transcript shows your payment history and any adjustments the IRS made after you filed. A verification of non-filing confirms you did not file that year. Most people need a return transcript.

Using IRS.gov to read or order forms and transcripts

IRS.gov has a dedicated section for forms and publications. Go to IRS.gov, click "Forms and Publications" in the top menu, then search for "1040" or the specific form you need. You can read and print when ready as a PDF. The site also has links to order forms by mail if you prefer not to print.

To order a transcript online, go to IRS.gov and look for "Get Your Tax Record" or "Transcripts" in the main navigation. You will need to create or log into an IRS online account using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. Once logged in, you can view and read transcripts from past years when ready. This method is free and does not require you to call or mail anything.

If you do not have an IRS online account, you can create one in about 10 minutes. The IRS will ask you to verify your identity using information from your credit report or by uploading a photo of your ID.

Ordering by phone or mail

To order a current-year 1040 by phone, call 1-800-829-3676. Have your name, address, and the form number ready. The IRS will mail it to you in 7 to 10 business days. This method is useful if you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone.

To order a transcript by phone, call 1-800-829-5500. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and the tax year you want. The IRS will mail the transcript to the address on file. Some transcripts are available when ready by phone — the IRS can read certain information to you over the phone if you ask, though you will still need the written version for most official purposes.

To order by mail, read Form 4506-C from IRS.gov, fill it out, and mail it to the IRS address shown on the form. Include your name, Social Security number, address, and the tax year. Mail delivery and IRS processing typically take 15 to 30 days total.

Getting forms in person

During tax season (January through April), most public libraries have 1040 forms and related schedules available for free. Call ahead to confirm your local library has them in stock. Many libraries also have computers you can use to read forms if they do not have printed copies.

Post offices carry tax forms during tax season as well. The selection is usually smaller than at libraries, but you can pick one up while handling other business. Some banks and credit unions also stock forms for their customers.

If you need a transcript in person, you cannot pick one up at a local office — the IRS does not have walk-in locations for this. You must order online, by phone, or by mail.

What to do if you cannot find the form or transcript you need

If you have looked online and by phone and still cannot locate what you need, contact the IRS directly. Call 1-800-829-1040 (for general questions) or 1-800-829-5500 (for transcripts). The IRS can tell you whether the form or transcript is available, help you understand which one you actually need, and walk you through ordering it.

If you are working with a tax preparer or accountant, they often have forms on hand and can order transcripts on your behalf. You will need to sign a power of attorney form (Form 2848) to authorize them to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to get a 1040 form or transcript?

No. The IRS provides 1040 forms and transcripts for free. If a website or service charges you for a form or transcript, it is not an official IRS source. Go directly to IRS.gov or call 1-800-829-3676 to avoid fees.

How long does it take to get a transcript if I order online?

If you order through your IRS online account at IRS.gov, you can read the transcript when ready as a PDF. If you request it by phone or mail, the IRS mails it to you in 5 to 10 business days by phone or 15 to 30 days by mail.

Can I get a transcript for someone else, like a family member?

Only the person whose return it is can order their own transcript, unless you have power of attorney. If you need a transcript for someone else, they must request it themselves or sign Form 2848 authorizing you to act on their behalf.

What if I filed electronically — do I still need a paper 1040?

No. If you filed electronically, your return is on file with the IRS. You do not need a paper form. If you need proof of what you filed, order a return transcript instead.

Is there a difference between downloading a 1040 from IRS.gov and getting one mailed to me?

No. The form is identical whether you print it yourself or receive it by mail. Printing it yourself is faster if you need it right away. The mailed version arrives with instructions and related schedules included.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.