How to File Back Tax Returns
Many people owe back taxes. Once you are past the tax deadline, any day is a good day to file. According to the IRS website, "The IRS wants to get people back into the system, not prosecute ordinary people who made a mistake." Sharpen your pencils, boot up your hard drive or visit your local tax professional. Who knows? You may even have a refund coming to you.
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Things You'll Need
- Tax Documents (W-2s, 1099s, receipts) Tax Forms or Tax Software for the appropriate year
Instructions
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Gather all of your tax information for the appropriate year. This will include income statements such as W-2s and 1099 statements as well as documents regarding deductions such as charitable receipts and mortgage interest statements.
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Obtain either tax forms or tax software for the appropriate year. Deduction amounts, limits and tax forms change from year to year.
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Calculate your taxes. It is possible to receive a refund even if you file your taxes after the filing date. However, you must file within 3 years of the due date of the return..
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Mail your taxes to the your local IRS Service Center (see Resources). It is not possible to e-file tax returns for prior years.
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Send in any payment due or set up a payment plan with Form 9465 (see Resources).
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Tips & Warnings
Was there a natural disaster such as a hurricane or flood which prevented you from filing on time? There may be a special exception for individuals in your situation. Check on this by calling the IRS at (800) 829-1040 or by contacting a tax professional. If you do not file, the IRS will prepare a substitute return on your behalf. This substitute return does not include any deductions other than the standard deduction and is unlikely to be in your favor. By filing your own tax return, you may be able to reduce some tax debt.
If you do not file a tax return, penalties and interest will increase the amount of taxes due. Per the IRS, the collection process may include "placing a levy on wages or bank accounts or placing a federal tax lien against your property."
