IRA Basis

[davenj]

This is the first year I need to take an RMD, so the first year that my IRA basis really matters.  I was sloppy in recording pre- vs. post-tax contributions in past years and don't have tax records for 2004-2006, years when I probably made post-tax contributions.    I did file an 8606 the past few years but the IRA basis I provided was a guesstimate.   How can I get my tax returns from 2004-2006? 

[davenj]

Also, I have my Turbotax files from 2004-2006 but not the software.   Would Turbotax run these files for me? 

[fanfare]

IRS says:

Without your Form 8606 history, your basis is denied, unless you can show by satisfactory documentation, the contributions made in years past and the Form 1040 for those years showing no deduction was taken

[VolvoGirl]

@davenj   you could try the TaxPrinter service to convert a .tax file to pdf at

http://www.taxprinter.com

They might be expensive and it is probably not safe to email tax returns back and forth.  They are not related to Turbo Tax.

[davenj]

Thanks.  I don't have the documentation, so I can only take a best guess.  

[davenj]

Thanks. I sent my return to Tax Printer 10 days ago and have not received an acknowledgment. The only indication is that my credit card was charged.    I asked for a status but received no response.  Is this a scam?

[DianeW777]

You can check third party websites for prior year TurboTax software to review your older tax returns for your correct cost basis in your IRA(s). Keep in mind that Form 8606 is a signature form and can be filed by mail by itself to correct it.

Unfortunately the IRS only goes back only seven years and there is a fee for each copy of your returns. 

• Prior year tax returns are available from the IRS for a fee. Taxpayers can request a copy of a tax return by completing and mailing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, to the IRS address listed on the form. There's a $43 fee for each copy. These are available for the current tax year and up to seven years prior. 
  • Request a copy of a tax return: Prior year tax returns are available from the IRS for a fee. Taxpayers can request a copy of a tax return by completing and mailing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, to the IRS address listed on the form. There's a $43 fee for each copy. These are available for the current tax year and up to seven years prior.

@davenj