How to Obtain an IRS Tax Return Transcript

Using the Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) is the fastest, easiest, and most accurate way to provide your tax information to complete the federal verification process. But if an institution is requesting the IRS transcript, then the DRT would not be an option.

The student and parent of a dependent student who was selected for verification for the 2018-19 Award Year must submit to the Office of Financial Aid at Stockton University an IRS Tax Return Transcript of their 2016 tax year information if:

  • You/they are unable to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT)
  • The institution is requesting the transcript
  • You/they used the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT), but subsequently changed the information

Here is how to obtain an IRS Tax Return Transcript:

Request Tax Return Transcript Online
  1. Visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
  2. Select “Get Transcript Online” (You will have to set up an account)
  3. Follow instructions to obtain your 2016 “Tax Return Transcript”. You will be able to immediately view, print, or download your tax return transcript.
Request Tax Return Transcript by Mail
  1. Visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
  2. Select “Get Transcript by Mail”
  3. Follow instructions to request by mail and your 2016 Tax Return Transcript will be mailed to you within 10 days
Request Tax Return Transcript by Automated Telephone Service (mail service)
  • The IRS has an automated telephone transcript service that can be reached at (800) 908-9946. The Tax Return Transcript will be mailed to you in 5-10 business days.
    1. Select language
    2. Enter Social Security Number
    3. Verify address
    4. Select option #2 to request Tax Return Transcript
    5. Select tax year (2016) for 2018/2019 academic year
Request Tax Return Transcript by Fax
  • To speak to a Customer Service Representative, call the IRS at (800) 829-1040 ~ DO NOT choose the first option “Refund” (this will take you to the automated line)
    1. Select language
    2. Select Option 2 for “Personal Income Tax”
    3. Select Option 1 for “Form, Tax History, or Payment”
    4. Select Option 3 for “All Other Questions”
    5. Select Option 2 again for “All Other Questions”
    6. When asked to enter your Social Security Number, do NOT enter the number. It will ask you twice before bypassing to another menu
    7. Select Option 2 for “Personal or Individual Tax Questions. You will then be transferred to an agent who can assist you

About Christopher Connors, Jr.

Chris Connors is Associate Director of Financial Aid at Stockton University. He received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Stockton University. Chris is a member of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) and New Jersey Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NJASFAA). He is passionate about improving the use of technology within financial aid and uncomplicating the financial aid process for students and families.

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