I got behind on filing my tax returns and I want to catch up. How do I do it?
The IRS has tax forms and instructions for several prior years at its website, www.irs.gov.
- Select the “Forms and Instructions” tab and Click “Prior Year” to download the years you need.
- A local library might print the forms or have a computer for you to use.
- If you feel comfortable filling out the forms, this is probably the easiest and fastest way to complete old returns.
- If you don’t, some free tax preparation sites will help with returns for prior years.
- These sites are generally open January thru April. In most areas, you can call 2-1-1 during tax season to find one near you.
- Some tax sites may be open during the off-season; calling 2-1-1 is probably your best bet to locate these sites
I moved several times and don’t know if I have all my W-2s and 1099’s. How can I make sure?
Tax forms that employers, banks, and businesses send to you are normally filed with the IRS, too. The IRS may keep these records up to ten years. You can find out what is in your records by completing and sending Form 4506-T Request for Transcript of Tax Return.
To get this form online,
- Go to www.irs.gov
- Select the “Forms and Instructions” tab
- Enter 4506-T into the Search box
There are five different types of transcripts:
- Return Transcript – A copy of the most recent return filed with the IRS (Available for 3 years from the original due date)
- Account Transcript – Shows whether there is a balance due, penalties, interest, payments and processing date, initial tax due, and any withholdings.
- Record of Account – Combines the information in the Return Transcript and the Account Transcript, but is only available up to three years from the return due date.
- Verification of Non-Filing – Mainly used to verify whether the IRS has a return for you. (Available after June 15th for the current year)
- Wage and Income Transcript – These are generally available for 10 years. It includes W-2s, 1098’s, 1099’s, and 5498’s (Individual Retirement Account contributions). Wage and Income Transcripts should show any federal withholdings, but will not show state of Iowa withholdings. Records of state withholdings are not kept by federal or most state entities, so your best bet is to get replacement W-2s from employers. If that is not possible, then it may be possible to estimate state withholdings based upon federal withholdings.The state of Iowa requires employers to report Iowa withholdings but the state is not required to give this information to employees.
When you fill out Form 4506-T, be sure to check the box to the right of item 8 for forms including Form W-2 and Form 1099. Mail or fax the completed form to the address or phone number that the form lists for your state.
Hint: Try to make a “GO” folder. Keep your crucial documents in this folder. Include at least a copy of your last year’s tax returns.
- Create a current year envelope each January that you put all your W-2s, 1099’s and receipts that you may need for tax purposes
- If you work lots of small jobs, keep at least one paystub from each job. This will help you make sure you have gotten all your W-2s when you go to get your taxes prepared.
- Keep this folder in a secure place. Always have it where you can place your hands on it quickly when needed.
You can also get transcript information online if you create an account with the IRS. For information on creating the account and getting transcript information online, go to https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
How far back can I claim refunds?
The IRS gives you three years to request a refund from the original due date of the return. If you didn’t file a tax return for the 2021 tax year, you must file it by the tax filing deadline in 2025.
What if I owe?
The IRS offers several possible options for repayment. If you can’t work something out, you might be able to get help negotiating with the IRS from Iowa Legal Aid’s Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC). To find out if you can get free legal help from Iowa Legal Aid, call 1-800-532-1275.