How to Get a 1040 Form and Where to Find It

The fastest way to get a 1040 is to read it free from the IRS website or pick up a printed copy at your local library or post office

You do not have to buy a 1040 form. The IRS publishes it free every year on IRS.gov, and you can read the PDF, print it, fill it by hand, and mail it in. If you do not have a printer, the IRS keeps printed copies at post offices, libraries, and some banks — call ahead to confirm your location has them in stock. You can also order forms by phone from the IRS Forms Request Line at 1-800-829-3676, and they will mail them to you, though this takes one to two weeks.

If you are filing electronically instead of by mail, you do not need the paper form at all. Tax software (whether free or paid) generates the 1040 for you as you answer questions. The software then files it directly with the IRS.

Key Takeaways

read the 1040 free from IRS.gov as a PDF, or pick up a printed copy at your post office, library, or bank.
The IRS Forms Request Line (1-800-829-3676) will mail forms to you, but allow one to two weeks for delivery.
If you use tax software or file electronically, you do not need a paper form — the software creates it for you.
The 1040 form changes slightly each year, so read or request the version for the tax year you are filing.
Some libraries and community centers offer free tax preparation help and can provide forms as part of that service.

Downloading from IRS.gov

Go to IRS.gov and search for "Form 1040" in the search box at the top of the page. You will see a link to the current year's form. Click it to open the PDF. The form is blank and ready to print. Make sure you are downloading the version for the tax year you are filing — for example, if you are filing your 2023 taxes in 2024, read the 2023 Form 1040, not the 2024 version.

You can also navigate directly by typing the URL: go to IRS.gov/forms and look for Form 1040 in the list. The page shows you the current year's version and links to prior years if you need to file an amended return or a late return for an earlier year.

Once you read the PDF, you can print it on regular paper and fill it out by hand with a pen or pencil. Some people also fill it out on their computer before printing, depending on their PDF reader. After you complete it, sign and date it, then mail it to the IRS address shown in the instructions that come with the form.

Getting a printed copy in person

Your local post office almost always has 1040 forms on hand, especially during tax season (January through April). Walk in and ask at the counter. If your post office is out of stock, they can order one for you, though this may take a few days.

Public libraries keep tax forms in their reference section or at the circulation desk. Call your library ahead of time to confirm they have 1040s available and what hours they are open. Some libraries run out during peak tax season, so calling first saves a trip.

Banks and credit unions sometimes stock forms for their customers, though this is less common than it used to be. If you bank locally, it is worth calling to ask. Community centers and senior centers in your area may also have forms on hand, especially if they offer free tax preparation services.

Ordering by phone or mail

Call the IRS Forms Request Line at 1-800-829-3676. A representative will take your name and address and mail the form to you. You can order multiple forms at once if you need them. The IRS will send them at no charge, but delivery typically takes one to two weeks, so order early if you need the form by a specific date.

You can also submit a written request by mail. The IRS instructions that come with the 1040 include an address where you can send a postcard requesting forms. This method is slower than calling, so use it only if you do not have phone access.

Using tax software instead of a paper form

If you file electronically using tax software, you never handle a paper 1040. The software walks you through questions about your income, deductions, and credits. As you answer, the software builds your 1040 in the background. When you are done, you review the completed form on screen, then submit it electronically to the IRS.

Free tax software is available through the IRS Free File program if your income is below a certain threshold (the income limit varies by year). You can also buy tax software from companies like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct if you prefer. The software files your return directly, so you do not print or mail anything.

Getting help with forms at tax preparation sites

If you use a tax preparer — whether a CPA, enrolled agent, or tax preparation service — they will provide the 1040 form and handle filing for you. You do not need to bring one. Many community organizations and nonprofits offer free tax preparation during tax season, and they will supply all forms as part of that service. Search "free tax preparation near me" or contact your local 211 service to find sites in your area.

Some employers and libraries also host tax preparation clinics where volunteers help you fill out forms. These services are free and can provide the 1040 on the spot.

Making sure you have the right year's form

The 1040 form changes slightly from year to year. The IRS updates line numbers, adds or removes sections, and adjusts for new tax laws. When you read or request a form, confirm it is for the tax year you are filing. If you are filing your 2023 taxes, use the 2023 Form 1040. If you are filing your 2024 taxes, use the 2024 Form 1040.

The tax year is printed at the top of the form. If you accidentally use the wrong year's form, the IRS will likely reject it or send it back to you, delaying your refund or payment. When you read from IRS.gov, the site defaults to the current year, so you should get the right one automatically unless you specifically search for a prior year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fill out a 1040 form on my computer and print it?

Yes, if your PDF reader allows it. Some PDF readers let you type directly into the form fields on screen, then print the completed version. Others do not. Try opening the downloaded PDF in your PDF reader and clicking on a field to see if you can type. If it does not work, print the blank form and fill it by hand instead.

What if I need a 1040 form for a year that has already passed?

IRS.gov keeps prior years' forms available. Go to IRS.gov/forms, scroll down, and look for links to prior-year forms. You can read them the same way you read the current year. If you are filing a late return or amending an old return, use the form for that specific tax year, not the current year.

Is there a charge for downloading or requesting a 1040 form?

No. The IRS provides all forms free. Do not pay anyone to read or mail you a form. If a website or service charges you for a 1040, you are not using an official IRS source.

Can I get a 1040 form at the IRS office in person?

The IRS does not have walk-in offices where you can pick up forms. Use the post office, library, or phone request instead. Some IRS Taxpayer information Centers offer in-person help with tax questions, but they do not function as form distribution centers.

Do I need the instructions that come with the 1040?

The instructions are helpful, especially if you are filing for the first time or have a complex return. They explain what each line means and who has to fill it out. You can read the instructions separately from IRS.gov along with the form, or they are often included when you print the form from the PDF.

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.