If you have not filed a prior year tax return and are due a refund, you should consider filing the return to claim that refund. If you are missing a refund for a previously filed tax return, you should check the status of your refund and confirm your current address.
Unclaimed Refunds
Some people may have had taxes withheld from their wages but were not required to file a tax return because they had too little income. Others may not have had any tax withheld but would be eligible for the refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.
- To collect this money, a return must be filed with the IRS no later than three years from the due date of the return.
- If no return is filed to claim the refund within three years, the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.
- There is no penalty assessed by the IRS for filing a late return qualifying for a refund.
Undeliverable Refunds
Were you expecting a refund check but never received it?
- Refund checks are mailed to your last known address. Checks are returned to the IRS if you move without notifying the IRS or the U.S. Postal Service.
- You may be able to update your address with the IRS on the “Where’s My Refund?” feature available on IRS.gov. You will be prompted to provide an updated address if there is an undeliverable check outstanding within the last 12 months. If you do not have access to the Internet, please call this office for assistance.
- You can also ensure the IRS has your correct address by filing Form 8822, Change of Address.
If you need assistance in filing past due returns or tracing a refund, please call this office.
Leave a Reply