How do I find my prior year AGI?

Modified on Mon, 12 Jan at 9:50 AM

Your prior year AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) is a key number the IRS uses to verify your identity when you e-file your tax return. If you’re asking, “how do I find my AGI from last year?” there are several ways to locate it depending on how you filed and whether you still have access to your prior tax documents. For a step-by-step overview of extensions and filings, visit our Tax Extension Resources.

Where to Find AGI on Your Tax Return

On your tax return, your AGI is listed on Form 1040, Line 11 (for 2021 and later). For older years, such as 2019, it was listed on Line 7 of Form 1040.
If you used a paid preparer last year, request a copy of your return directly from them.
If you used tax software, log in to your account. Many programs store a copy of your prior return, which includes your AGI number.
If you’ve switched software, you may still be able to retrieve your prior return by accessing the old account.

Common questions: where to find AGI, where do I find my AGI on my tax return, where is AGI on 1040, where to find AGI on W-2 (answer: your AGI is not shown on your W-2).

Using IRS Tools to Get Your AGI

If you don’t have a copy of your return, the IRS provides several ways to get your AGI from last year:

Get Transcript Online – view your Tax Return Transcript instantly after passing the IRS Secure Access process.
Get Transcript by Mail – request a mailed copy by calling 800-908-9946 or submitting online; delivery takes 5–10 days.

Make sure you use the “Adjusted Gross Income” line entry from the Tax Return Transcript only. This is the official AGI number needed to e-file.

Special Cases When Entering AGI

If you received an Identity Protection (IP) PIN, be sure to enter it when prompted. It helps verify your identity along with your AGI.
If you’re a first-time filer age 16 or older, your prior year AGI is considered zero.
If your return was rejected because of an AGI mismatch (common rejection message: “tax rejected bc last year AGI error”), double-check the line entry on your prior return or request a transcript to confirm the correct number.

Learn more about avoiding rejections in our guide on IRS rejection codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AGI on my W-2?

No. AGI is not on your W-2. Your W-2 reports your wages, withholding, and benefits, but your AGI is calculated on your tax return (Form 1040).

What line is AGI on my 1040?

Your AGI is on Line 11 of Form 1040 for tax years 2021 and later. For 2019, it was on Line 7.

What is “prior year AGI”?

It’s your Adjusted Gross Income from the tax return you filed for the previous year. For example, when filing your 2025 return in 2026, your prior year AGI is from your 2024 return.

What’s the fastest way to get my AGI from last year?

The quickest way is to use IRS Get Transcript Online. If you can’t pass Secure Access, request “Get Transcript by Mail.” For help with filing deadlines and extensions, visit our Support Center.

Bottom Line

Your prior year AGI is essential for successfully e-filing. It verifies your identity and prevents IRS rejections. Check your Form 1040, request a transcript, or use your tax software to locate it. If you’re still unsure, the IRS offers multiple ways to help you find AGI from last year quickly. For related help, see our guide to filing a personal online tax extension.