Get Transcript was taken off line after criminals obtained tax returns and account information of more than 100,000 taxpayers on May 26, 2015. This information was used to file fraudulent returns with the IRS paying out nearly $50 million in refunds before it detected the scheme. A review showed potential access of approximately 390,000 additional taxpayer accounts from January 2014 through May 2015 with another 295,000 taxpayer transcripts targeted but not accessed.

Utilizing the new framework, the IRS is requiring a two-step authentication process for all online tools and applications that require a high level of assurance. IRS commissioner John Koskinen noted in a prepared statement that "No one, either in the public or private sector, can give an absolute guarantee that a system will never be compromised."

The IRS continues to provide other means of obtaining transcriptions including order them online or by telephone for receipt by mail. Those are usually delivered within five to 10 days.

To access the new Get Transcript Online, taxpayers must have an email address, a text-enabled mobile phone and specific financial account information, such as a credit card number or certain loan numbers. Those who registered via the older process must re-register and strengthen their authentication.

The IRS will send one-time verification, activation or security codes via email and text. The agency will not initiate contact via text or email asking for log-in information or personal data. New features enable taxpayers to see the data and time the page was last accessed. Returning users must obtain and enter a text code before being granted access.

Information on access Get Transcript Online is provided by Fact Sheet 2016-20.