What Should I Do If I Haven't Filed Taxes in Several Years?

Falling behind on your taxes can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Millions of Americans miss tax deadlines every year. This article applies to U.S. federal tax law and outlines exactly what to do if you haven’t filed in several years. TaxRise helps taxpayers safely catch up, avoid penalties, and resolve IRS debt through legal tax relief programs.

If you haven’t filed taxes in several years, you should gather your documents, file your missing returns as soon as possible, and contact the IRS or a tax relief professional to avoid penalties, enforcement, and criminal charges.

What This Means

Not filing your taxes is a serious issue, but it’s also common and fixable. The IRS generally requires at least the last six years of returns to be filed to bring you back into compliance. Once you're compliant, you may be eligible for tax relief programs that reduce or eliminate your back taxes.

The sooner you act, the more options you have — especially before the IRS files returns on your behalf, known as Substitute for Return (SFR), which often results in a higher tax bill.

Who This Affects

• Individuals who missed one or more tax filing years
• Gig workers and self-employed individuals with irregular income
• People who received IRS notices but felt unsure how to respond
• Anyone who fears they owe more than they can pay

Even if you haven’t filed in 10+ years, you still have options. The IRS typically focuses on the last six years, and older liabilities may be reduced or resolved entirely with proper tax help.

What You Can Do to File Past Taxes

Follow these steps to safely catch up on unfiled taxes:

• Gather Your Income Records: Collect W-2s, 1099s, and bank statements. The IRS “Wage and Income Transcript” tool can help if you’ve lost your paperwork.
• File Back Tax Returns: Start with the most recent year and work backward. Avoid guessing numbers — accuracy matters.
• Avoid Substitute for Return (SFR): If the IRS has already filed for you, you can still submit your true return to replace it.
• Explore Tax Relief Options: If you owe, you may qualify for tax resolution options such as an Installment Agreement or Offer in Compromise.
• Hire a Professional: Tax relief experts like TaxRise can help you file fast, communicate directly with the IRS, and minimize penalties.

Don’t wait for the IRS to come after you. Voluntarily catching up puts you in a much better legal and financial position.

How TaxRise Can Help File Your Taxes

TaxRise specializes in helping taxpayers who haven’t filed in years. We order your IRS transcripts, file your returns quickly, and pursue tax resolution programs to resolve or reduce your tax debt.

Get a free consultation today and take the first step toward tax compliance and financial freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will I go to jail for not filing taxes?
  It’s rare. The IRS focuses on civil penalties, but repeated willful non-filing can lead to criminal charges. Voluntary compliance greatly reduces risk.
• Can I still get a refund if I haven’t filed?
  Yes — but only for the past three years. After that, refunds are forfeited by law.
• What if I can’t afford to pay what I owe?
  You may qualify for IRS relief programs like an Offer in Compromise or Currently Not Collectible status.

Reviewed by TaxRise Tax Professionals
This article was reviewed by the TaxRise Tax Professional Team. TaxRise has helped thousands of Americans eliminate millions in IRS and state tax debt. This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal or tax advice.