[FL] How do I get a copy of my lost S Corporation Election Form filed with the IRS?

Lexi, Chatbot

I'm sorry to hear that you've lost your S Form Election Document; that can be frustrating. Have you already checked with the agency or organization that issued the document for any procedures they have in place for obtaining a replacement?

Lexi, Chatbot

Can you provide details about when you originally filed the S Form Election Document?

Jon

Hello, and thank you for reaching out! I’m Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, here to help.

I understand legal matters can feel overwhelming, but you’re in good hands. My goal is to explain things clearly and guide you toward the best possible solution for your situation. Just a quick note: our conversation is for general legal information only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Do you recall whether you filed the S Corporation Election (Form 2553) directly with the IRS or through a tax professional?

Jon

Have you already contacted the IRS directly to request a copy of your S Corporation Election (Form 2553), or would you like guidance on how to do that?

Jon

Understood! I believe I have all the information I need. Is there anything else you'd like to add before I start working on your answer? If not, I’ll get started right away.

Jon

Got it! I just need a few minutes to put together a complete response for you. It shouldn’t take longer than about 4–5 minutes, and I want to make sure it’s clear and comprehensive. Thanks so much for waiting—I really appreciate your patience.

Jon

This is actually a really common problem, so you’re not alone. The good news is that the agency you need to deal with here isn’t a state office or a corporation commission—it’s the Internal Revenue Service.

An S-Corporation election (Form 2553) is a federal tax election, so the IRS is the only place that can officially confirm it.

Since you already know the business name, your FEIN, and roughly when the election was filed, you’re already in a great position to get this cleared up quickly.

The fastest way to get proof of your S-Corp status is to call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. They’re open Monday through Friday, usually from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time—so for you, that means Eastern Time.

When you get someone on the phone, you can ask them to confirm that your S-Corporation election for your business name was accepted and what the effective date is. You can also ask them to send you an official letter showing the election was approved—either the original acceptance letter (Notice CP261) or a verification letter (Form 385C).

They will ask a few questions to verify that you are authorized to get this information. Be ready to provide the company name, FEIN, business address and phone number, and your role in the business.

If you want a copy of the actual Form 2553 that was filed, there is a separate option. You can request it using IRS Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return). The IRS charges a fee ($50), and it can take up to about 75 days to process, so this is more of a backup option.

So your best next step is to call the IRS first. They can usually confirm your S-Corp status right away and send the documentation you need.

Jon

There is no "secret" phone number, but there is a specific, publicly listed IRS phone number for businesses that is the correct point of contact for S Corporation election issues.

The IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line is 1-800-829-4933, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.

Jon

You're welcome! I do hope the information I provided was helpful and addressed your question. If there's anything else you need, please don't hesitate to reach out—I’m always happy to assist. Wishing you a fantastic day ahead!

Jon

Very welcome, glad I was able to help!