Once the wheels are set in motion, it becomes tricky to stop the cart from rolling down the hill. Our skilled attorneys can monitor your account while you’re focused on getting your tax returns prepared and filed. We utilize software that tells us what happens to your account weeks before a notice or letter is sent to you or us. There’s no reason why you have to focus on those issues simultaneously.
We will closely with you or whomever prepares your tax returns to ensure we’re prepared to handle anything that comes of it, whether it be balances owed, a potential audit, or criminal charges.
Yes, you can still file your taxes even if you haven’t done so in years. The IRS encourages taxpayers to submit their past-due returns as soon as possible to avoid additional penalties and interest. Filing past due returns also allows you to determine exactly what you owe and explore options for payment plans or penalty relief. In some cases, you may even be eligible for refunds or valuable tax credits that you would otherwise miss out on.
If you haven’t filed your tax returns, the IRS can technically go back as far as they want. Unlike filed returns, which generally have a time limit for audits and assessments, unfiled tax returns don’t have a statute of limitations. According to 26 U.S. Code § 6501, the IRS can assess tax at any time if a return was never filed.
However, in practice, the IRS usually looks back at least six years of missing returns to bring taxpayers back into compliance. If you voluntarily file your past-due returns, you may be able to limit penalties and avoid enforcement actions like wage garnishments or bank levies.
It’s also worth noting that if you did file but left out more than 25% of your income, the IRS has up to six years to review and assess additional taxes. And if fraud is suspected, there’s no time limit for the IRS to take action.
The sooner you file, the better. Filing your overdue returns can help you avoid escalating penalties, interest, and potential legal consequences. If you're unsure where to start, a tax professional can help you get back on track and make sure everything is done correctly.
Call our office at 800-571-7175 for a complementary case evaluation.
We can get you back on track.
"I had lots of concerns and questions about some old tax debt that had been a thorn in my side for years. Ayar Law was very responsive. Their free consultation was comprehensive and tailored to my needs and situation."