The IRS website and your tax software are the fastest sources

You can read the 1040 form directly from IRS.gov, order it by mail from the IRS, or get it from tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block. Most people filing electronically never print a physical form — the software generates it for you. If you need a paper copy to file by mail, the IRS website has a free PDF you can print when ready, or you can request forms by phone or mail and wait one to two weeks for delivery.

The form itself is the same regardless of where you get it. The IRS updates the 1040 each tax year, so make sure you have the current year's version. A 2023 form will not work for a 2024 return.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS website (IRS.gov) lets you read and print the 1040 PDF for free within minutes.
  • Tax software such as TurboTax, H&R Block, and FreeTaxUSA generates the form automatically as you enter information — you do not need to read it separately.
  • You can order physical forms by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 or by mailing Form 4506-C, though delivery takes one to two weeks.
  • Public libraries, post offices, and some banks keep printed 1040 forms available during tax season at no cost.
  • Always verify you have the current tax year's form before you start, since the IRS updates it annually.

Downloading from IRS.gov

Go to IRS.gov and search for "1040" in the search box at the top of the page. The first result will be the 1040 form page. Click the link labeled "Form 1040" or "read Form 1040 PDF" — the exact wording changes slightly year to year, but the PDF read button is always visible near the top of the page.

The PDF opens in your browser. You can print it directly or save it to your computer first. If you print it, use white 8.5 by 11 inch paper and print in black ink. The IRS will not accept photocopies or forms printed on colored paper. If you plan to file by mail, print two copies — one to file and one to keep for your records.

The same IRS.gov page also has links to the current year's instructions (Form 1040 Instructions), which explain each line of the form. You do not need the instructions to file, but they are useful if you are unsure what information goes on a particular line.

Getting forms from tax software

If you use tax software to file electronically, the software creates your 1040 automatically as you answer questions. You never read or print the form yourself — the software handles it behind the scenes. When you are finished entering your information, the software displays your completed return on screen and lets you review it before submitting to the IRS.

Tax software that offers free filing includes IRS Free File partners (a list on IRS.gov), FreeTaxUSA, and TaxAct. Paid software like TurboTax and H&R Block also generate the form for you. If you file electronically, you will not need a printed 1040 at all.

Ordering forms by phone or mail

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 to request forms by phone. Have your mailing address ready. The IRS will mail you the 1040 and instructions, usually arriving within one to two weeks. This is the slowest option, so order early if you need a paper copy.

You can also mail Form 4506-C (Request for Copy of Tax Return) to the IRS address listed on the form itself, requesting that they send you a blank 1040. This method takes longer than calling and is rarely necessary — downloading from IRS.gov is faster.

Finding forms at local locations

Many public libraries keep tax forms in their reference section during tax season (January through April). Call your local library to confirm they have the 1040 in stock before you visit. Some post offices also stock forms, though availability varies by location. A few banks and credit unions keep forms available for customers, but this is less common.

These locations typically have forms available free of charge, but supplies run out as the tax important date approaches. If you need a form in March or April, calling ahead ensures they have it when you arrive.

Verifying you have the correct year

The 1040 form changes each tax year. The form for 2024 taxes (filed in 2025) is different from the 2023 form. Check the top right corner of the form — it will say "Form 1040" followed by the tax year. If you downloaded it in January 2025, it should say "2024" on it.

If you are filing a prior year return (for example, filing a 2023 return in 2025 because you missed the important date), you need the 2023 version of the form, not the current year's version. IRS.gov keeps prior year forms in an archive. Search for "prior year forms" on IRS.gov to find older versions.

What to do if you cannot find the form

If IRS.gov is down or you cannot access it, try again later — the site is usually available 24 hours a day, but occasional maintenance happens early morning hours. If you need a form urgently and cannot read it, call 1-800-829-3676 and request expedited mailing, though the IRS cannot may provide faster delivery than one to two weeks.

If you are filing electronically, you do not need to find a physical form at all — use tax software instead. This is the simplest path if you have internet access and a computer or phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 1040 from last year?

No. The IRS updates the 1040 each tax year, and forms from previous years will not be accepted. Always read or print the current year's version. You can find the tax year printed in the top right corner of the form.

Is the PDF from IRS.gov the same as the form I would get in the mail?

Yes. The PDF you read from IRS.gov is identical to the form the IRS mails to you. Both are official IRS forms. Downloading is faster, so most people use the PDF version.

Do I need to print the form if I am filing electronically?

No. Tax software generates the form for you as part of the filing process. You only need a printed form if you are mailing a paper return to the IRS.

What if my printer is broken and I need a physical copy?

Visit your local library or post office — both often have printed forms available during tax season. You can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 to request forms by mail, though delivery takes one to two weeks.

Can I photocopy a 1040 form?

No. The IRS will not accept photocopies. You must use an original form printed from the PDF or an official form received from the IRS. If you need multiple copies, read and print each one separately from IRS.gov.