Unfiled taxes are tax returns for past years that were required but never submitted to the IRS or state tax authorities. This can happen unintentionally due to oversight or intentionally if income was not reported, leaving potential taxes owed—or refunds—unresolved.

Failing to file tax returns creates serious issues:

• Penalties accrue—5% per month for late filing, up to 25% of the tax owed, plus interest.

• The IRS may file a substitute return for you, excluding deductions or credits you’re eligible for, increasing your debt.

• Refunds, if due, expire after three years from the original due date.

• The IRS can pursue collection actions, like liens or levies, if a balance is owed.

Filing overdue returns, even without payment, stops the failure-to-file penalty and starts resolving the issue.

You can handle unfiled taxes in several ways:

 

• Do It Yourself: Gather past income records—W-2s, 1099s, or bank statements—and complete prior-year forms like Form 1040. This requires tracking down old documents, understanding current tax laws, and ensuring accuracy—errors can lead to audits or higher penalties.

• Use Tax Software: Some programs support past-year filings, but you must enter accurate data and confirm the software covers the years needed. Complex situations, like self-employment, may exceed basic software capabilities.

• • Hire a Tax Professional: A professional is the best way to file unfiled taxes. They collect necessary records, prepare accurate returns for any past year, and submit them to the IRS and state. If filing reveals a tax debt, a professional can negotiate payment plans or other relief to resolve it effectively.