Interpreting IRS account transcript codes can be an intimidating and confusing process. These three-digit codes scattered around your tax transcript are typically no reason to cause alarm, but deciphering them can be arduous, especially when you're not sure where to start. Fortunately, arming yourself with the basics can ease deciphering your IRS transcript.
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To electronically process and review tax returns, the IRS uploads all paper and electronic documents to the Master File. As returns go through this process, every change and stage of review is marked with a transcript code.
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There are several categories under the Master File, all utilized by the IRS to track progress on tax returns. These categories include: Individual Master File (IMF), Business Master File (BMF), Employee Plans Master File (EPMF), Information Returns Master File (IRM) and Individual Retirement Account Master File (IRAF).
The IMF stores information regarding taxpayers and their individual income tax returns, while the BMF contains information about taxpayers' business returns and related documents. The EPMF holds information on returns filed for trusts, pensions and profit-sharing plans. Information Returns Master File contains tax return details, such as Form W-2s. Lastly, the IRAF is home to information on taxpayers who have established an individual retirement arrangement.
Account transcripts, return transcripts, record of account transcripts, wage and income transcripts and verification of nonfiling letter transcripts are the five types of transcripts you can request access to.
These transcripts can be requested online by creating an account with the IRS and accessing the IRS Get Transcript tool. The account transcript will provide an overview of the account, including information on filings, extensions, withholdings and other IRS account activity.
The majority of IRS actions are noted on these transcripts. A return transcript holds more details of an original tax return than the other transcripts listed; however, it will not contain actions taken after the return was processed, including amendments.
Record of account transcripts are a combination of the account transcript and return transcript. This transcript reveals the bigger picture by including the return as well as changes made post-processing. Wage and income transcripts show reported income, and verification of nonfiling letter transcripts are produced when there's no return on file.
