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IRSOther IRS Forms (7000–9999)

Official form guide

Form 851: 851

IRS Form 851 is a request to obtain a copy of a previously filed tax return. Use it when you need an exact replica of a return that the IRS has on file.

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Form Overview

IRS Form 851 - 851

IRS Form 851 is a request to obtain a copy of a previously filed tax return. Use it when you need an exact replica of a return that the IRS has on file.

It captures the taxpayer’s identity, the tax year(s) requested, the type of return, and the delivery address.

Risk Radar

Scan points
  • 1A single typo in the taxpayer ID can halt the entire request.
  • 2Wrong SSN/EIN entered
  • 3Missing signature or unauthorized signature
  • 4Incorrect tax year or return type selected
  • 5No copy of required ID attached

Plain English

If you lost a tax return or need an official copy for a loan, court, or other purpose, you fill out Form 851. It tells the IRS which return you want and where to send it.

Submission Date

  • Filing date: 2016-10-14 00:00:00
  • Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
  • Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.

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Glossary Terms

officialidentityobtain

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What this form is for

  • Use when you need an exact copy of a filed return.
  • Do not use for a transcript; that requires Form 4506‑T.
  • Check if a fee waiver applies before submitting.

Form selector

Use this form or another form?

Need a summary of return

Provides transcript, not full copy

✓ Verify required document type

Form 4506‑T

Request for a copy of a foreign return

Power of attorney needed for foreign filings

✓ Confirm authority

Form 2848 + Form 851

Deadline or filing window

There is no statutory deadline for filing Form 851, but the IRS recommends submitting the request at least 30 days before you need the copy. Processing typically takes 4‑6 weeks; expect longer during peak periods.

  • —Number of copies | $50 × copies | Total fee | Verify fee amount before payment

Checklist

What you need before filling it out

1

Taxpayer ID

Social Security card or EIN verification letter · Tax documents or IRS notice

⚠ Miss‑typed digits✕ High
2

Signature

Original handwritten signature · Signed form copy

⚠ Printed signature from a PDF✕ Medium
3

Photo ID

Driver’s license or passport copy · Government ID

⚠ Blurry or expired ID✕ High
4

Fee payment

Check or money order · Payment receipt

⚠ Missing memo line✕ Medium
5

Mailing address

Current address proof · Utility bill or lease

⚠ Outdated address✕ Medium

Before you submit

  1. 1Confirm SSN/EIN matches the requested return
  2. 2Verify tax year(s) and return type are correct
  3. 3Ensure original handwritten signature is present
  4. 4Attach a clear copy of a valid photo ID
  5. 5Include the correct fee amount and payment method
  6. 6Use the current edition of Form 851 (2023)
  7. 7Mail to the correct IRS address for the return type
  8. 8Retain a dated copy of the entire packet

How to file this form

  1. 1Download the 2023 Form 851 PDF from IRS.gov
  2. 2Print the form on white 8.5×11 paper
  3. 3Complete the top section with taxpayer name, SSN/EIN, and address
  4. 4Select the appropriate return type and year(s) in Part II
  5. 5Sign and date the form in the designated area
  6. 6Attach a clear copy of a government‑issued photo ID
  7. 7Add a check or money order for the $50 fee per copy
  8. 8Mail the package to the address listed in the{} instructions
  9. 9Keep the tracking number for the mailed package
  10. 10File a copy of the submission in your records

Field map

Compact field-by-field guide

6 fields

General Info

2 items

Taxpayer Name and TIN

Full legal name and taxpayer identification number (SSN or EIN).

Requiredtext
Address

Current mailing address.

Requiredtext

Details

2 items

Required Information

Complete all applicable sections of this form according to the official IRS instructions.

Requiredtext
Amount (if applicable)

Enter the relevant dollar amount if this form involves tax calculation.

amount

Certification

1 items

Certification Statement

Read and acknowledge any certifications required by this form.

Requiredcheckbox

Signatures

1 items

Signature

Sign and date. Unsigned forms cannot be processed.

Requiredsignature
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Current form status
IRS

Form 851 is currently active for tax years 2015 onward. The latest revision is dated 2023 and is available on the IRS website.

What changed or needs a fresh check

  • Edition date: 2023
  • Fee: $50 per copy (subject to change)
  • Mailing address: see instructions for the specific return type
  • Signature requirement: original handwritten signature only
  • Attachment: copy of a government‑issued photo ID

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Quick Facts

The taxpayer, a legal representative, or an authorized third party files this form.
It captures the taxpayer’s identity, the tax year(s) requested, the type of return, and the delivery address.
File the form after the original filing deadline has passed; there is no statutory deadline, but processing can take weeks.
Mail the completed form to the IRS address listed in the instructions for the specific type of return requested.
Incorrect information can delay the copy, cause the IRS to send it to the wrong address, or result in a denied request.
1. Gather the taxpayer’s SSN or EIN, filing address, and the exact year(s) needed. 2. Fill out the top section with personal details and sign. 3. Indicate the return type and year(s) in Part II. 4. Attach a copy of a valid photo ID and a payment if a fee applies. 5. Mail to the address in the instructions and keep a copy for your records.

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Source transparency

Copyright & Licensing - US Government Forms

Independent guide

BrieflyGo links to and explains official public form sources. We are not a government agency, and this page is for general form guidance, not legal advice.

Public DomainCreated by the U.S. federal government. Not subject to copyright (17 USC § 105). Freely copyable without restriction.
Public DomainCreated by the U.S. federal government. Not subject to copyright (17 USC § 105). Freely copyable without restriction.
Public DomainCreated by the U.S. federal government. Not subject to copyright (17 USC § 105). Freely copyable without restriction.
Public DomainCreated by the U.S. federal government. Not subject to copyright (17 USC § 105). Freely copyable without restriction.
Verify current license terms with the source agency before reuse outside this platform.

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