Tax Problems

Unfiled Returns

Failure to file your returns can cause serious financial problems. If you haven’t filed a return in one year – or several – it’s important to get back in compliance with the IRS.

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“Failure to file penalties are more than the failure to pay, which is why filing on time is important. Failing to file returns is also a criminal offense, which could carry significant penalties, as well as, possible jail time.”

- Alyssa Maloof Whatley

Do You Have Unfiled Returns? Now Is The Time To Act.

There are a lot of reasons why people fail to file their individual or business tax returns. As you can imagine, the IRS takes unfiled returns very seriously. Plus, being out of compliance with the federal or state taxing authorities leaves you vulnerable to their aggressive collection tactics.

If you need to get things right with the IRS or other taxing authority, you’re in the right place. With past due returns and all the associated penalties and interest that have accrued, you need the guidance of a tax professional who specializes in getting tax related problems solved.

Once your returns are prepared, it’s time to negotiate with the IRS – and you don’t want to go it alone.

What Happens If I Have Unfiled Tax Returns?

You may receive a notice called a Substitute for a Return. Because third parties report on your wages and other income sources to the IRS, the IRS uses their “best guess” to figure out what you owe in taxes based on the available information.

The trouble is, this guess almost always represents an inflated tax bill because they don’t look for the deductions that might be available to you. Worse still, some states view this substitute return as final – meaning it can end up with a ripple effect on your state tax bill.

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Daniela M.

“As a CPA, I have worked closely with Alyssa to help with my clients' complicated tax issues. She is very honest, detailed, and responsive and will hold a client's hand until the issue is resolved and provide honest and clear advice along the way. I've seen her greatly reduce client's tax liabilities.”

Dave J.

“From the moment I started working with Alyssa, my distress & blood pressure decreased and my confidence increased that all of this would be okay! Super smart, very knowledgeable, and just delightful to work with. I'm so relieved and encouraged!”

Paul L.

“Alyssa and her team were fast, to the point and so professional with handling an issue I had with the IRS! She promised that the situation would be handled and in just a few short weeks she delivered on that promise. Thank you so much!”

Craig S.

“I find this attorney to be very honest and willing to assist her clients by guiding them in the right direction. I would recommend her to anyone that has a question on matters of her expertise. She is very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.”

Barb S.

“Alyssa is an amazing attorney! She is knowledgeable, efficient, and effective! Also, she is quick to respond, extremely pleasant, and very reassuring. We are so grateful for her expertise and help! Highly recommend!”

April H.

“Alyssa has helped me and my parents with an overwhelming tax issue. Something we never thought could be done. She's so kind, patient, thorough and knows tax law. I'd recommend her 100% to anyone when it comes to dealing with the IRS.”

Tara F.

“When I first spoke to Alyssa I was facing an IRS Audit for two years at the same time and felt extremely overwhelmed. Alyssa outlined a solid approach and was very easy to talk to and understand. My tax liabilities were brought down by 50%.”

Shatiqua S.

“I was reluctant to reach out due to all the previous calls to other offices who where going to charge me more than what I owed on my taxes. I spoke with the Alyssa, she was very nice and it did not feel like a sales call. She helped me understand the type of letter I received and patient assisting me.”

Michelli R.

“If you need legal assistance with your taxes, I strongly recommend Alyssa. Receiving a large tax notice from the IRS was very scary. Alyssa’s calm and level-headed demeanor helped ease my concerns. She responded quickly to my questions and knew just what to do.”

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How Can I Resolve Unfiled Tax Returns?

It’s important to get into compliance with the IRS as quickly as possible, so start by gathering any documentation you may have to prepare a return. In addition, you will want to get your wage and income transcripts so you can see what information has reported to the IRS and make sure you are not missing any information from your return. Getting your returns filed is only one part of the process.

Chances are, if you haven’t filed in a year or longer, you’re facing significant penalties and interest. You need a skilled negotiator on your side to deal with the IRS and get your into a repayment plan that works for your financial situation.

How Many Years Will The IRS Go Back On Unfiled Taxes?

There’s no statute of limitations on unfiled returns, although typically the IRS doesn’t go back more than 6 years. However, they retain the right to go back and look as far back as they like for unfiled returns and to assess penalties and interest for past due tax bills.

Can I Go To Jail For Unfiled Taxes?

While rare, yes. Failure to file returns can be a criminal offense and jail time is a possible outcome for unfiled returns.

Schedule A Tax Strategy Session Now

A man reading his phone to see when his lat filing was and a calendar

Will The IRS Work With Me On My Unfiled Taxes?

The IRS has stepped up enforcement of unfiled taxes using data analysis and new compliance tracking strategies. The IRS wants taxpayers in compliance with filing requirements.

Getting your unfiled returns completed is only one part of the process as a taxpayer. You’ll also need to address any outstanding back taxes. That’s why working with a tax attorney is critical to ensure you have a tax strategy that works for you.