Request copies of filed tax returns and Forms W-2 and 1099 by using our mobile friendly online application. Click here to submit a request for copies.

If you do not have access to a computer or are unable to use the online application, you can request copies by calling Customer Service at (608) 266-2772.

You may also visit one of our offices to complete this request. Click the link here for a list of office locations and hours.

You should receive your documents within three weeks after all required identification documents and fees have been received. Older return requests may take longer to process.

Note: We will send all documents to you by mail. Documents cannot be sent electronically.

Include the following with all requests:

• Copy of identification (ID) containing photograph and signature of the person whose returns are requested (e.g., valid driver's license, state identification card, passport, or military identification).
  
  
• Copy of document containing social security number and name of the person whose returns are requested (e.g., social security card, W-2 Form, or Internal Revenue Service (IRS) authorization for an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN),
  
  

Note: If you do not attach your photo ID, SSN verification and payment, you must mail them with a copy of your confirmation letter. Keep this in mind when using a mobile device not connected to a printer.

If you are not the taxpayer, you must also submit a copy of a properly executed Power of Attorney, Form A-222, as authorization to receive tax records. You may also use a tax authorization form or IRS Power of Attorney with the taxpayer's signature notarized (including stamp/seal).

If the taxpayer is deceased and there is an estate, provide a copy of the domiciliary letter or letter of administration indicating you have "general powers" of a personal representative. If there is no estate, you must submit a copy of the death certificate and a letter stating the reason you need these documents.

For Trusts, you must have a court document that appoints you as the trustee and states you are authorized to request/receive state and federal tax records. Include a copy of your photo ID.

If you are an officer requesting a business tax return and did not sign the business tax return, submit proof that you are an officer of the business. Other persons may also request copies if they provide written authorization, such as a Power of Attorney, Form A-222, signed by the taxpayer, partner, or corporate officer. The requester must be an individual. Do not use a business name.

Note: Most business tax returns are free through a registered My Tax Account. Go to tap.revenue.wi.gov to register or access My Tax Account.

If you are a legal guardian, submit the guardianship paperwork signed by the court along with your photo ID. Also include a copy of the taxpayer's photo ID and Social Security document (see above for appropriate photo ID and Social Security document).

Click the Attach Document link on the application.

The search fee is $5.00 for each year/period you request, regardless of whether the information requested is located. If the information is not located, we will notify you by letter.

The certified copy search fee is $6.00 for each year/period you request. Certified copies are processed at our Madison office and must include payment.

Generally, you will be notified by the agency requesting these documents if you are required to receive certified copies. If you are only requesting for your own records, you will not need certified copies.

Note: The fee for Audit Work Papers is $0.01 per single-sided paper plus cost of staff time, not to exceed $30 per hour to locate and redact any confidential information. Staff time will be billed at the pay rate of the lowest paid employee capable of performing the task.

If you are unable to upload the required documents or submit payment through the online application, you may print your confirmation letter and mail the required documents with that letter to the address provide on the confirmation.

We provide copies of Wisconsin tax returns only. For federal tax returns, contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Generally, tax records are kept for seven years. Returns may be retained longer if any of the following apply to the return or period:

• Net business loss (NBL)
• Credit that can be carried forward
• Audit
• Collection
• Warrant
• Criminal investigation
  
  

Exceptions include the following:

• Real Estate Transfer returns are available for five years
• Lottery and Gaming Credit late claim applications are available for four years
  
  

Note: Copies of returns are not available until they have been fully processed.

Click here to submit a request for copies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE
Return Services Unit
PO Box 8949
Madison, WI 53708-8949
Phone: (608) 266-2772
Email: DORTaxReturnCopyRequests@wisconsin.gov

December 4, 2018