Best Guide for Unfiled Tax Returns

File all tax returns that are due, regardless of whether or not you can pay in full. File your past due return the same way and to the same location where you would file an on-time return.

If you have received a notice, make sure to send your past due return to the location indicated on the notice you received.

Falling behind on filing tax returns can be stressful, but it’s a common issue that many taxpayers face. Whether you forgot to file, experienced financial hardship, or simply didn’t realize you had a filing obligation, resolving unfiled tax returns is crucial to avoid penalties and legal complications. Here’s what you need to know about getting back on track in 2025.

The IRS estimates that over 7 million Americans fail to file tax returns every year. If you’ve found yourself with unfiled tax returns, this guide will help you understand your situation and deal with actions the IRS could take against you.

It's easy to feel overwhelmed when you have years of back taxes you need to file, but we're here to help. Before you file your back taxes, learn how to gather old tax documents, which forms to complete, and how to minimize penalties and interest. If you're wondering how to file back taxes, take a look at this guide to get started.

The IRS typically doesn't charge penalties or fees on late or unfiled tax returns that result in a refund. However, there are many reasons why people in this group should consider filing their prior-year tax returns. For starters, you can't collect your refund until you file, and if you don't file within three years of the tax deadline for that year, you forfeit your right to collect the funds

If you’ve found yourself with unfiled tax returns, this guide is intended to help you clarify your situation, understand what actions the IRS could take against you, and answer your questions on how outstanding returns can affect your daily life.

IRS Policy Statement 5-133, Delinquent Returns – Enforcement of Filing Requirements, provides a general rule that taxpayers must file six years of back tax returns to be in good standing with the IRS. The policy also states that IRS management would have to approve any deviation from that rule.

The IRS may contact you to ask you to file, or may take more serious actions, such as filing a return for you or opening a criminal investigation. Taxpayers can face substantial penalties for late filing, including a 5% per month late-filing penalty (up to 25%) of the unpaid taxes. To get back into filing compliance, you should follow IRS procedures and use several best practices to resolve your late-filing issue.

Catching up on unfiled tax returns can be intimidating, but it’s always better to tackle them sooner rather than later. The complexity of the problem will only compound over time — as will any penalties and interest you might be subject to.

Let’s explore what happens if you have unfiled tax returns, what you should do to recover, and where to get help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Use this guide for an overview of common concerns and when to seek professional help to resolve your unfiled tax returns.