Unfiled Tax Returns
It's not too late to get compliant. We help you file back taxes and resolve your situation with the IRS.
Get Help NowWhy Unfiled Returns Are a Problem
If you haven't filed tax returns, the IRS knows. They receive copies of your W-2s, 1099s, and other income documents from employers and financial institutions. Not filing doesn't mean they don't know what you earned.
The longer you wait, the more serious the consequences become. Penalties and interest accumulate, the IRS may file a return on your behalf (usually in their favor), and you risk criminal penalties in extreme cases.
The good news is that getting compliant is usually straightforward, and the IRS generally works with taxpayers who come forward voluntarily. Many people in your situation end up owing less than they feared—and some even get refunds.
Consequences of Not Filing
Penalties Add Up
Failure-to-file penalty is 5% per month (up to 25%), plus failure-to-pay and interest charges.
Substitute for Return (SFR)
The IRS may file a return for you without deductions or credits, resulting in a larger tax bill.
Collection Actions
The IRS can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and file tax liens until you're compliant.
Lost Refunds
You only have 3 years to claim a refund. After that, the money goes to the government.
How We Help You Get Compliant
Getting back on track is easier than you think:
Gather Records
We help you obtain wage and income transcripts from the IRS if you don't have your original documents.
Prepare Returns
We prepare all unfiled returns, ensuring you claim every deduction and credit you're entitled to.
Review & File
We review everything with you, answer your questions, and file the returns with the IRS.
Resolve Debt
If you owe taxes, we help you explore payment options, penalty abatement, or settlement programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years back do I need to file?
The IRS typically requires the last 6 years of unfiled returns to be considered compliant. However, if they've already filed Substitute for Returns or you have specific circumstances, you may need to file more or fewer years.
Will I go to jail for not filing?
Criminal prosecution for non-filing is rare and typically reserved for egregious cases involving fraud or repeated willful failure to file. Voluntarily coming forward to get compliant significantly reduces any risk.
What if I don't have my tax documents?
We can request wage and income transcripts from the IRS that show what was reported under your Social Security number. This gives us the information needed to prepare your returns.
Can I still get a refund?
You can claim refunds for returns filed within 3 years of the original due date. After that, any refund is forfeited. This is why it's important to file sooner rather than later.
What if I owe and can't pay?
Filing is separate from paying. It's better to file even if you can't pay—failure-to-file penalties are much higher than failure-to-pay penalties. We can help you set up a payment plan or explore other options.
Ready to Get Compliant?
Take the first step toward resolving your unfiled returns. Our free assessment will help you understand your situation and options.
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