Reviewed and updated October 16, 2026
Begin at IRS.gov
Type IRS.gov directly into your browser and find Individual Online Account. Avoid signing in through unexpected messages, paid advertisements or links sent by a stranger. The IRS uses an identity-verification provider for account access; follow the instructions linked from the official IRS page.
You may need identity documents and a verification process. Available verification methods and account screens can change, so use the current on-screen guidance rather than an old screenshot tutorial. If you cannot complete verification, consult the official help options.
Use the account for specific tasks
An individual account can provide balances, payment history, certain tax records and notices, and options for managing tax matters. Not every document or recent transaction appears immediately. Compare account entries with your payment confirmations before making another payment or assuming a balance is incorrect.
A transcript is a tax record, not always a full copy of an originally filed return. Determine which record is needed for a lender, tax appointment or missing-return question. Save downloaded records somewhere secure.
Keep access separate from professional authorization
Do not give a preparer your IRS password, identity-verification account credentials or security codes. Tax professionals can use formal authorization procedures when access or representation is needed. Sharing credentials is not a substitute for that authorization.
Use a unique password and available multifactor authentication. Review unexpected account notifications through the official site and promptly investigate suspicious activity. You can securely provide the records your preparer requests through your agreed document-upload process while retaining control of your IRS account.
Official sources
This guide provides general information. The rules depend on the tax year, jurisdiction and your circumstances. Ask our team which filing or planning steps apply to you.
