Missing a tax document? Prepare a recovery list

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Records & organization

By Accounting Services · Published September 30, 2026

A missing document does not need to remain a vague problem. Turn it into a short recovery list that names the item, the year and the likely source. This helps your preparer understand the gap and agree on a next step.

Be specific about the missing item

“I lost my taxes” could mean a filed return, a payment confirmation or an income statement. Identify which one you need. Check whether you have a draft, a partial copy or the same document for a different year. Keep those distinctions visible in your list.

Start with the original source

For employer, bank or platform records, identify the organization that issued the document and the account or period involved. Record when you requested a replacement. Never share account login credentials with someone offering to retrieve it for you.

Ask which IRS record would help

The IRS provides tax records and transcript options. A transcript and a complete copy of a return are not interchangeable for every purpose. Ask your preparer which record is relevant before assuming that the first download replaces everything missing.

Keep a status column: requested, received or still unresolved. Tell the preparer about any approaching date rather than waiting until your recovery list is complete. You can begin an ASI inquiry with basic contact details and a brief explanation of the missing information.

Source and further reading

IRS: Tax records and transcripts. General preparation information; your engagement and filing requirements depend on your circumstances.

What happens next

Tell ASI what you need help with. Start with your contact information and add optional context.