Is it legal to deny someone a copy of their tax return?
My boyfriends soon to be ex wife refuses to give him a copy of the joint tax return they filed for 2009. She did the return using one of the internet based tax software programs. He’s asked her several times for a copy and she flat out refuses to make him a copy. She said she would give him a copy, only if he was being audited.
So this is morally and ethically wrong, but is it illegal?
BTW, yes, she kept the whole refund too.

July 29th, 2010 at 6:29 am
No, it’s not legal, and boyfriend needs to lodge a complaint with the IRS, and get a good lawyer.
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July 29th, 2010 at 7:29 am
It is not “illegal.” If he wants to, he can get a transcript of the return from IRS. However, if she filed the joint return without his consent, THAT is illegal.
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July 29th, 2010 at 8:32 am
Since it was a joint return I think she has to give him a copy. But he can also call the IRS and have them send him a copy. That might be the simplest way to handle it. Good Luck.
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July 29th, 2010 at 9:32 am
he can contact IRS and get a copy of it,it will cost something to get it or he can get a transcript for free and avoid her altogether
yes, she should have provided a copy to him but she is not obligated like a preparer would be, this something within a family
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July 29th, 2010 at 10:30 am
If she filed a joint return without his agreement and signature, THAT was illegal. Not giving him a copy isn’t illegal.
He can get a copy or a transcript from the IRS
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