It is always a good idea for you to keep a copy of your annual tax return, in addition to the one your tax preparer keeps on file, as well as supporting documentation for income and deductions. If you do not have a copy of your tax return, ask if your preparer had any off-site electronic storage of clients' tax records. For example, files may have been placed on a computer server or on a portable drive away from the office where the fire occurred. If this is not an option, ask your preparer to contact the IRS to request copies of your tax records. The IRS can provide copies of taxpayers' tax returns from previous years upon request and payment of a specified fee.
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