How do I find my 2017 AGI?
Calculating your adjusted gross income (AGI) from a previous tax year, such as 2017, may be necessary for various financial purposes. Your AGI is a key figure used to determine your taxable income and eligibility for certain deductions, credits, and benefits. While it may seem daunting to locate your AGI from a particular year, there are several methods you can use to accurately retrieve this information. This article will walk you through the process of locating your AGI from 2017, ensuring that you have the tools necessary to effectively navigate your financial obligations.
Method 1: Review your tax return
The first, and most straightforward, method for finding your 2017 AGI is to check your filed tax return for that year. Locate your copy of the federal tax return you filed for 2017, commonly known as Form 1040. Your AGI is reported on line 37 of Form 1040, just before the “adjusted gross income” line. It represents the total amount of income you earned that year minus certain deductions, such as education expenses, student loan interest, and contributions to individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
If you prepared and e-filed your return using tax preparation software or an online platform, you can usually access your past returns through your account. Log in to the service and navigate to the section where you can view or download your past returns. Locate your 2017 return and open it to find your AGI on line 37 of Form 1040.
Method 2: Pull your tax transcripts
If you can’t find your filed return or prefer an alternative method, you can get your tax transcripts from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Tax transcripts are official documents that provide a summary of your tax return information, including your AGI. There are two main ways to get your tax transcripts: online or by mail.
To get your tax transcripts online, visit the IRS website and navigate to the “Get Transcript Online” tool. You will need to create an account or log in to your existing account to access this service. Once logged in, follow the instructions to request your 2017 tax transcripts. You can choose to download the transcripts in PDF format, which will include your AGI information.
If you prefer to receive your tax transcripts by mail, you can request them by completing Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, and mailing it to the IRS. Indicate “2017” as the year for which you need the transcript. After processing your request, the IRS will mail the transcripts to your address, usually within two to four weeks. Review the transcripts when you receive them and find your AGI on the appropriate line.
Method 3: Contact the IRS
If you have exhausted the previous methods and are still unable to locate your 2017 AGI, you can contact the IRS directly for assistance. The IRS has a special helpline for individual taxpayers called the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can reach this helpline by calling the toll-free number listed on the IRS website.
When you contact the IRS, be prepared to provide your personal information, including your full name, Social Security number, and date of birth, as well as any other information relevant to your tax return. Inform the representative that you need assistance in retrieving your 2017 AGI, and they will guide you through the steps necessary to obtain this information.
Method 4: Consult a tax professional
If you find yourself overwhelmed or unable to determine your 2017 AGI using the above methods, it may be beneficial to consult with a tax professional. Leveraging the expertise of a certified public accountant (CPA) or tax attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the complexities of your financial records.
A tax professional has in-depth knowledge of tax laws and regulations and can help you accurately determine your AGI. They can also help you understand the impact of your AGI on your tax situation and provide guidance for future financial planning.
When looking for a tax professional, make sure they have experience in tax preparation and a good reputation. You can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues, or use online directories and reviews to find a qualified professional in your area.
Bottom line
Determining your 2017 AGI is important for several financial purposes, and you have several methods to accurately locate this information. Start by reviewing your filed 2017 tax return by checking line 37 of Form 1040. If you can’t find your return, consider requesting your tax transcripts from the IRS, either online or by mail. If all else fails, contact the IRS directly for assistance or consult a tax professional who can guide you through the process. By following these steps, you will be armed with the information you need to effectively manage your financial obligations and make informed decisions moving forward.
FAQs
How can I find my AGI from 2017?
To find your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from 2017, you have a few options:
1. Check your 2017 tax return:
Your AGI can be found on line 37 of your Form 1040, line 21 of your Form 1040A, or line 4 of your Form 1040EZ. If you filed your taxes electronically, you can access your return through the software or platform you used to file.
2. Request a tax transcript:
You can request a transcript of your 2017 tax return from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This transcript will include your AGI. You can request it online through the IRS website, by mail using Form 4506-T, or by calling the IRS at their toll-free number.
3. Contact your tax preparer:
If you had a tax preparer or accountant assist you with your 2017 taxes, reach out to them and ask for a copy of your tax return. They should be able to provide you with the information you need, including your AGI.
4. Check your tax software or online account:
If you used tax preparation software or an online tax filing service to submit your 2017 return, log in to your account and check for any records or summaries that include your AGI. The software or platform may have stored this information for your reference.
5. Contact the IRS:
If none of the above options work, you can contact the IRS directly. They can assist you in obtaining your AGI from 2017. Be prepared to provide relevant identification and verification information to establish your identity.