- 1). Get the tax documents you need to show your income for the year(s) you want to file back taxes. If you no longer have the forms that reported your income, such as a W-2 or 1099, you can ask your employer or financial institution for copies, or contact the IRS at 1-866-681-4271. The IRS keeps records of the same forms that are sent to you, which is one way they can eventually find out you haven't filed! If necessary, you can also use Form 4852, available at IRS.gov, to file with estimated income.
- 2). Go to IRS.gov and find the tax return for the year you're filing your back taxes, by searching for the year and "1040" or the name of the form that you need.
- 3). Fill out the tax form, including deductions and supporting documentation, and mail it to the address where you normally send your taxes (see the "resources" section below for a link listing the addresses). Include a check for the tax due. If you can't pay the entire amount, you may be able to negotiate a payment plan. For filing complex back taxes, or if you have questions about paying less than the full amount, consult a tax professional to make sure you're not paying more than necessary.
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