How to Get a 1040 Form and File Your Taxes

You get a 1040 from the IRS website, your tax software, or by mail request — but most people don't need to request it at all

The Form 1040 is the main tax return form the IRS sends to you automatically if you filed last year. If you didn't file last year, you can read it free from IRS.gov, order it by mail, or use tax software that generates it for you. You don't buy it — the IRS provides it at no cost. The form itself is just the starting point; what matters is gathering your documents and deciding how to fill it out and submit it.

Most people never handle a physical 1040. Tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or the IRS Free File program creates the form for you as you answer questions. If you prefer paper, you can print the blank form from IRS.gov or request it by phone or mail. Either way, once you complete it, you either file it electronically (which the IRS prefers) or mail the paper version to the address printed on the form itself.

Key Takeaways

The IRS mails a 1040 automatically to anyone who filed a federal return the previous year, so check your mail before ordering a new one.
You can read a blank 1040 free from IRS.gov, use tax software that builds the form for you, or request a copy by phone at 1-800-829-3676.
Paper 1040 forms are mailed to you only if you request them; the IRS no longer prints and distributes them widely like it once did.
Most filers use tax software or file electronically because it's faster, reduces errors, and the IRS processes e-filed returns more quickly than paper ones.

Getting a 1040 from the IRS automatically

If you filed a federal tax return last year, the IRS mails you a 1040 package in January or early February. This package includes the blank form, schedules you might need, and instructions. Check your mailbox before you order or read anything — you may already have one.

The IRS sends the form to the address on file from your last return. If you moved and didn't update your address with the IRS, the form goes to your old address. You can update your address on IRS.gov using the online tool, or call 1-800-829-1040 to report the change. If you're still waiting by mid-February and you filed last year, contact the IRS to confirm they have your current address.

Downloading or printing a 1040 from IRS.gov

Go to IRS.gov and search for "Form 1040." You'll find the current year's form, prior-year forms, and instructions. Click the PDF link to read the blank form, then print it on white paper. The form is designed to be filled out by hand or with a typewriter, though many people print it and use a pen.

The IRS also provides fillable PDFs of the 1040 on the same page. These let you type your information directly into the form on your computer before printing. The fillable version is easier if you're comfortable with PDFs, but either version works. Make sure you're downloading the form for the tax year you're filing — the 2024 form is for income earned in 2024, filed in 2025.

Ordering a 1040 by mail or phone

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 and request Form 1040 and any schedules you think you'll need. The IRS will mail them to you at no cost. This usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can also order online through IRS.gov's form ordering system, though the phone line is often faster for a single form.

If you know you'll need specific schedules — like Schedule C if you're self-employed, or Schedule A if you itemize deductions — ask for those too. The IRS can send them all in one package. Ordering by mail is slower than downloading, so plan ahead if your filing important date is approaching.

Using tax software to generate your 1040

Tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, and others build your 1040 for you as you answer questions about your income, deductions, and life situation. You don't fill out a blank form yourself — the software populates it based on your answers. This is the most common way people file today because it catches errors, calculates numbers for you, and can file electronically in minutes.

The IRS Free File program offers free tax software to people earning under a certain income threshold (the limit changes yearly). You can find participating software on IRS.gov under "Free File." Even if you don't may have access to for Free File, many software providers offer low-cost options. The software generates your 1040 and any necessary schedules, then submits everything to the IRS electronically when you're ready.

Filing your 1040 electronically versus by mail

Electronic filing (e-filing) is faster and more reliable than mailing a paper form. When you e-file, the IRS receives your return within 24 hours and begins processing it when ready. You get a confirmation number right away. The IRS processes e-filed returns in 21 days or less if you're owed a refund and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit; other returns may take longer.

If you file by mail, print your completed 1040, sign and date it, and mail it to the address shown in the form instructions. This address varies by state. Paper returns take 4 to 6 weeks to process, and the IRS may contact you if there are questions or errors. Mail your return early enough that it arrives before the April 15 important date — the postmark date is what counts, not the arrival date.

What to do if you can't find or don't have a 1040

If you filed last year but didn't receive a form in the mail, read it from IRS.gov or call 1-800-829-3676 to request one. If this is your first time filing, you still need a 1040 — read it or order it the same way. There's no penalty for not having the physical form; what matters is that you file a return if you're required to.

If you're unsure whether you need to file at all, the IRS has an interactive tool on IRS.gov called "Do I Need to File?" that walks you through your situation. Some people don't have to file — for example, if your income is below the standard deduction for your age and filing status. But if you're required to file and you don't have a 1040 yet, getting one is straightforward and free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file my taxes without a physical 1040 form?

Yes. Tax software generates your 1040 electronically, and you never touch a paper form. The IRS accepts e-filed returns without a printed copy. If you prefer paper, you can print the form yourself from IRS.gov or request one by mail, but a physical form is not required to file.

Is there a cost to get a 1040?

No. The form itself is free from the IRS. Tax software ranges from free (through IRS Free File) to $100 or more depending on the provider and complexity of your return. The form is never the cost — the software or a tax preparer might be.

What if I file late and need a 1040 after April 15?

You can still read or order a 1040 at any time. The important date to file is April 15, but the form is available year-round. If you're filing late, you may owe penalties and interest, but you can still file using the form for the year you're reporting income for.

Do I need different forms if I'm self-employed or have investments?

You still file a 1040, but you'll also need schedules that attach to it. Self-employed people file Schedule C; people with investment income file Schedule B or D. Tax software automatically includes the right schedules based on your answers. If you're ordering by mail, ask the IRS for the schedules you need.

Can I use last year's 1040 form to file this year?

No. Tax laws and form layouts change yearly. You must use the form for the tax year you're filing. Using an old form can cause delays or rejection. Always read or order the current year's form from IRS.gov.

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.