Is it possible to obtain copies of corporate federal tax returns? If so, how?

Is it possible to obtain copies of corporate federal tax returns? If so, how?
I'm looking for tax data on the Fortune 500 over the past 5 years for a research project... besides annual reports (which only show aggregated data), how can I get a copy of their federal tax filings?


Answers:

hrblockerrolquinn:  Dear P: Public companies are required to provide data and the annual reports satisfy that requirement. Additional data could be obtained with the company's blessing. The IRS would not release the info. This advice was prepared based on our understanding of the tax law in effect at the time it was written as it applies to the facts that you provided. Click on my profile to read more. Errol Quinn Enrolled Agent
2010-09-10 21:30:36
Bobbie:  You would have get the copy from the corporation if they would be willing to let you look at a copy of the tax return or make you copy of it.
2010-09-11 03:54:33
Bostonian In MO:  Unless the company is willing to give you a copy of the tax return, you can't get copies. Tax returns are confidential between the IRS and the taxpayer and that includes publicly listed companies.
2010-09-11 06:46:44
Chosen Answer
Max Hoopla:  You can't. Tax returns, yours and theirs, are confidential. Reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission that you can see are pretty comprehensive.
2010-09-11 07:31:57
tro:  not from IRS, you don't have the authorization to obtain any you might contact the corp
2010-09-11 09:46:31