How To Notarize & Get Copy Of Tax Return Online

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

• A notarized tax return may be needed for financial aid or immigration
• NotaryLive allows easy online notarization of your tax return from home
• Simply upload document, verify ID, connect to a notary, and get notarized copy

As we are in tax season, many individuals and businesses are looking for more convenient ways to file taxes online. 

Sometimes, there are specific scenarios that you may need a copy of your tax return during the tax season. 

In this blog we'll go over how to get a copy of tax return online, what the scenarios are for needing the copy, and events you may need to notarize the copy. 

1. What Is A Copy Of A Tax Return? 

A copy of your tax return is a replica of the tax return you submitted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

The copy includes all attached forms, schedules and supporting documents. Basically, it's a copy of the original tax return you filed. 

2. Purpose of Copy vs. Tax Transcript 

Here are some key points about tax return copies: 

• The Purpose: You may need a copy (instead of a tax transcript) of your tax return for reasons such as filing an amended tax return or providing documentation.
• Copies Of Tax Return vs. Transcripts: 
  • Tax transcripts are print-outs of the most important highlights from your tax return – used for scenarios like loan applications, financial aid, or benefits eligibility.
  • Copies provide the entire tax return, including all attachments.

In most cases, you may need a transcript over the copy of your tax return. 

 How to get a Copy of a Tax Return Online? 

• To obtain a copy of your federal tax return, use Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return.

3. Why would someone need a copy? 

Besides obtaining a copy of your tax return instead of a transcript for filing an amended return, you can also use a copy for other reasons as well. 

Let's break it down: 

1. Proof of Income 
2. Legal or Financial Matters 
3. Detailed Record Keeping 
4. Verification for State/Local taxes 
5. Applying for Financial Aid 
6. Mortgage or Loan Applications 
7. Legal Proceedings 
8. Personal Record Keeping 

Note: Transcripts are usually sufficient for most cases, but if any of these apply to you, receiving a copy using Form 4506 is recommended. 

4. Your Copy May Require Notarization 

While most people don't need a notarized tax return, it may be necessary in certain circumstances. When filing taxes in 2024, consider using online tax filing for convenience. 

Below are situations where you may need a notarized copy of your tax return.

Financial Aid

When it comes to applying for financial aid, you may need to get a document notarized. Certain schools or financial aid programs may require a notarized copy of your tax return to verify your income. This is especially true for scholarships, grants, and loans that are need-based.

Immigration Sponsorship

If you are sponsoring a family member for immigration to the United States, you may need to provide proof of income. In such cases, a notarized copy of your tax return can serve as a valid document for proof of income.

You may also need to file IRS Form I-864A (affidavit of support) along with a copy of your tax return. 

If the person you want to sponsor works within the U.S., they should file their notarized tax return or have a notarized letter showing why they didn't require filing taxes. 

5. Steps Before Getting Your Tax Return Notarized

To get your tax return notarized, you will require a paper tax form. You can get these forms from the IRS. The most common form that filers will use is IRS Form 1040. Other forms you may see include the 1040-ES form, 4506-T form, W-7 form, and 9465 form.

In 5 simple steps, you will:

1. Print the form (PDF format)
2. Use the instructions the IRS provides.
3. Do not sign or date the form --> wait until the notarial session
4. Find an online notary public to get your tax return notarized.

In some cases, you may even need a copy of the tax return you had already filed in the past. 

These transcripts are easy to get on the IRS website as well on the transcripts page. You may receive your transcripts by mail or online. 

You will need your SSN, email address, personal bank account number, loan or mortgage, and mobile phone number.

6. How Can NotaryLive Help You Get a Notarized Copy of Your Tax Return?

NotaryLive is a 24/7 online notary service that can help you with your income tax filing. You can get your federal taxes remotely notarized from the comfort of your own home, legally.

How to get a document notarized with NotaryLive:

1. Print out a copy of your tax return (previously mentioned)
2. Log on to NotaryLive and upload the document.
3. Connect with a notary public via audio-video technology.
4. Show your ID to the notary, and sign the document electronically.
5. The notary will add their electronic signature and notary seal, and then your document is notarized.

Once your document is notarized, NotaryLive will provide you with a download through your dashboard.

How NotaryLive works in 4 easy steps: 

To get started, you can click the button below, 

Notarize Now!

FAQ For a Copy of the Tax Return 

• Can I see a copy of my tax return online? 
  • Yes. You can access your tax records online through the IRS Get Transcript.
    • Go to IRS Get Transcript
    • Log in/Create Account
      • In here, see how much you owe, review payment history, view prior year adjusted gross income, and access tax records.
• How long should copies of tax returns be kept? 
  1. For 3 years if 4, 5, and 6 don't apply.
  2. For 7 years if filing a claim for loss from securities and bad debt deduction
  3. For 6 years if you didn't report income
  4. Indefinitely if you do not file a return or you file a fraudulent return
  5. For 4 years after tax becomes due or paid
  6. Keep copies to prepare future returns and make computations if filing an amended return.

**Legal Disclaimer - We are not lawyers or attorneys and do not give any legal advice. Please check with your attorneys, advisors, or document recipients if you have any unanswered questions about your documents.

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