What is an IRS transcript?
Short answer
An IRS transcript is a summary of what the IRS has on file for a taxpayer: return data, account activity, or the wage and income forms employers and banks reported.
What it is
The IRS offers several transcript types. A tax return transcript shows most lines of the return as filed. A tax account transcript shows filing status, payments, penalties and later changes. A wage and income transcript lists the W-2s, 1099s and 1098s that third parties reported under the taxpayer's number. A verification of non-filing letter confirms no return was filed.
Taxpayers get them through their IRS Online Account or by mail. Tax professionals with a Form 8821 or 2848 on file can request them through the IRS Transcript Delivery System.
Why it matters for a tax firm
The wage and income transcript is the answer to "I never got that 1099". Current-year data fills in through the spring and summer, so for returns filed in February it is more useful for prior years and for catching forms the client forgot.
How XyloDocs handles it
XyloDocs' missing-documents list is built from what the client is expected to have; when a client cannot find a form, the firm can check the transcript and close the item instead of waiting.
Related terms
Read more on XyloDocs
Sources
Questions about IRS transcript
Which transcript shows a missing W-2?
The wage and income transcript. It lists the information returns filed under the taxpayer's SSN or ITIN, including W-2, 1099 and 1098 forms.
Can my tax preparer pull my transcript?
Yes, once you have signed Form 8821 or Form 2848 naming them, through the IRS system for tax professionals.
Last reviewed: October 16, 2026. This glossary explains terms; it is not legal or tax advice. Check the cited source for the current rule.
Stop chasing documents and status calls
XyloDocs is the AI client communication platform for tax firms: bilingual calls and texts, document intake over WhatsApp and email, and status updates clients read before they phone.