IRS Publication 5533 Chinese-Simplified – Are you looking to access your own non-tax records held by the IRS, such as personnel files, security logs, training records, or other Privacy Act-protected information? IRS Form 15603 — officially titled IRS Request for Individual Access to Non-Tax Records Protected under the Privacy Act — is the dedicated tool for this purpose.
Revised in July 2024 (posted July 19, 2024), this form streamlines requests for individuals, parents seeking minor children’s records, or legal guardians for incompetent individuals. It is not for tax returns, transcripts, or return information — those require separate procedures like Form 4506-T.
This comprehensive, up-to-date guide draws exclusively from official IRS sources, including the IRS Privacy Policy (last reviewed November 17, 2025), the IRS FOIA and Privacy Act Public Access Portal, and Federal Register notices. Download the official PDF here: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f15603.pdf.
What Is IRS Form 15603 and Why Do You Need It?
The Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a) grants individuals the right to access and request amendment of federal agency records about them in “systems of records” — groups of records retrievable by name, SSN, or other personal identifier.
Form 15603 is the IRS-specific form for requesting non-tax records only. Tax records are generally exempt from standard Privacy Act access and handled through other IRS channels (e.g., account transcripts or amendments via Form 1040-X).
Key uses include requesting:
- Personnel or employment records (if you are or were an IRS employee)
- Security clearance or HSPD-12 enrollment records
- Training or background investigation files
- Other non-tax administrative records maintained in IRS Privacy Act systems
Estimated burden: IRS data shows approximately 300 respondents annually, with each request taking about 15 minutes (total annual burden ~4,500 hours).
Who Should File IRS Form 15603?
- Individuals seeking their own non-tax IRS records
- Parents requesting records of a minor child
- Legal guardians requesting records of an incompetent person
- Authorized representatives (with proper documentation and consent)
Important distinction: If you need tax-related information, use routine IRS services instead — no Form 15603 required.
IRS Form 15603 vs. FOIA vs. Tax Records: Quick Comparison
| Request Type | Form/Tool Used | Covers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Tax Privacy Act Access | Form 15603 | Personnel, security, admin records | Your own non-tax files |
| Consent to Disclose | Form 15293 | Authorizing release to third parties | Sharing records with others |
| Tax Transcripts/Returns | Form 4506-T or online | Tax returns & account info | Tax history |
| General Agency Records | FOIA Request | Public or non-Privacy Act info | Broader agency documents |
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out IRS Form 15603?
The form is straightforward and includes built-in instructions. Follow these steps for a complete, delay-free submission:
- Provide Your Identity Information
Enter your full legal name, current mailing address, date and place of birth, and daytime phone number. These must exactly match IRS records for verification. - Describe the Records You Seek
Be as specific as possible (this is the most critical section). Include:- Record type/title (e.g., “HSPD-12 enrollment record”)
- Relevant IRS office, program, or location
- Date range (e.g., “June 2023 – October 2024”)
- Any identifying numbers (case ID, file number, etc.)
Tip: Vague requests like “all my records” often trigger delays or clarification requests. Narrow and precise descriptions speed processing.
- Attach Proof of Identity
Include a clear copy of a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.). - Signature and Certification
Sign and date the form, certifying that the information is true and that you are the subject of the requested records (or authorized parent/guardian). - Third-Party Consent (if applicable)
If you want records sent to someone else (attorney, CPA, etc.), attach Form 15293 (Consent for Disclosure of Non-Tax IRS Records Protected under the Privacy Act).
The form also supports parents/guardians explicitly.
How to Submit IRS Form 15603? (Preferred Method + Alternatives)
Electronic Submission (Recommended – Fastest & Trackable)
- Go to the IRS FOIA and Privacy Act Public Access Portal.
- Sign in or create an account (uses ID.me for secure identity verification).
- Upload your completed Form 15603 (and Form 15293 if needed).
- Track status, send/receive secure messages, and receive documents electronically.
Mail or Fax
Send to:
Internal Revenue Service
FOIA/Privacy Act Request
HQ FOIA, Stop 211
PO Box 621506
Atlanta, GA 30362-3006
Fax: 877-807-9215
Phone support: IRS FOIA Public Liaison – (312) 292-2929
Pro tip: Electronic submission via the portal is fastest, allows real-time tracking, and is explicitly recommended by the IRS Privacy Policy.
What Happens After You Submit?
- IRS verifies your identity and the request’s validity.
- Staff search relevant Privacy Act systems of records.
- You receive responsive records (or a response explaining any exemptions/denials).
- Processing times vary based on complexity and volume — the portal provides status updates.
Routine access to open-case files may still be available directly from your assigned IRS employee without a formal request.
Related Form: IRS Form 15293
Use Form 15293 (July 2024 revision) when you want to consent to disclosure of your non-tax records to a third party. Submit it alongside or separately via the same portal.
Download: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f15293.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IRS Form 15603
Is Form 15603 free?
Yes — there is no filing fee for Privacy Act access requests.
Can I request amendment of records?
Yes, the Privacy Act also allows requests to correct inaccurate records. Submit a separate written request after or alongside access.
How long does it take?
Varies; the portal allows you to monitor progress. Narrow requests process faster.
What if my request is denied?
You will receive an explanation and appeal rights.
Do IRS employees use a different process?
IRS employees should follow Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) 10.5.6.6 for Privacy Act requests for non-tax records.
Is this the same as a FOIA request?
No. FOIA is for general agency records; Privacy Act is specifically for records about you.
Final Tips for Success
- Always use the latest July 2024 version of Form 15603.
- Be precise and specific in your record description.
- Submit electronically whenever possible.
- Keep copies of everything you send and any portal confirmations.
- For questions, contact the FOIA Public Liaison at (312) 292-2929.
Official Sources & Further Reading
- IRS Privacy Policy: https://www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/irs-privacy-policy
- FOIA & Privacy Act Portal: https://foiapublicaccessportal.for.irs.gov
- Form 15603 PDF: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f15603.pdf
- Treasury Department System of Records Notices (SORNs): Treasury SORNs
Need help with a specific non-tax record request or related IRS forms? Bookmark this guide and check IRS.gov regularly for updates. Filing Form 15603 correctly ensures you exercise your Privacy Act rights efficiently and securely.
Last updated February 2026 based on current IRS publications and forms.