I have not filed in years. How many years do I need to file?
Short answer: The IRS generally asks for the last six years to bring you into compliance. Filing before the IRS contacts you gives you more options.
IRS policy generally requires the last six years of returns to consider a taxpayer in good standing, though it can ask for more in some cases.
If you do not file, the IRS may prepare a substitute for return using only your W-2s and 1099s. Those returns leave out deductions, dependents and business expenses, so the bill is usually higher than it should be.
Refunds have a deadline too. You generally lose a refund that is not claimed within three years of the original due date.
We pull your IRS wage and income transcripts, prepare the missing years, and set up a plan for any balance at the same time.
General information from Davis Schuler & Associates, LLC, not advice for your situation. Tax rules and thresholds change; confirm the current rules before acting.
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