How to Replace (and Store) Crucial Documents

How to Get Copies of Tax Returns

Why you need it: “You’ll need these to secure a competitive rate on a loan or for any real estate transactions,” says Zenna Lim, a broker at the Barron Mortgage Group, in New York City. And your accountant will need them to prepare your taxes. “We usually ask for the tax returns for at least one year prior,” says Jackie Perlman of H&R Block in Kansas City, Missouri.

Where to get a new one: Start with your accountant or tax preparer, who usually keeps copies of your returns on file. You can also get copies of federal returns directly from the Internal Revenue Service. Visit irs.gov to download the required forms, or call 800-829-1040 to request them.

What you need to get it: Fill out and mail in IRS form 4506. The cost is $39 for each return requested.

How long it takes: It could take up to 60 days to get the returns, so plan ahead. (It’s the IRS―what did you expect?)