Billions of dollars in unclaimed tax refunds remain with the IRS, affecting millions of Americans who fail to file returns or make errors. Over $1 billion related to the 2021 tax year is still available in 2025. Many people do not file because they believe their income is below the threshold, overlook tax credits, or make clerical mistakes. Taxpayers have three years from the filing deadline to claim refunds before they revert to the U.S. Treasury. The IRS provides tools for tracking down unclaimed funds and guidance for filing amendments and claims by heirs.
Every year, billions of dollars in unclaimed tax refunds remain in the hands of the IRS, waiting for taxpayers to claim them. These refunds often go uncollected because people fail to file returns, make errors in their filings, or have never received checks due to outdated addresses.
In 2025 alone, more than $1 billion tied to 2021 tax year returns is still available, affecting over 1.1 million Americans. There are many factors that lead to unclaimed refunds, such as believing they don't need to file taxes or overlooking refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Taxpayers have just three years from the original filing deadline to claim what they're owed before the funds are permanently transferred to the U.S. Treasury. This slideshow covers tools provided by the IRS to help individuals track down their unclaimed money.
Learn about the 'Where's My Refund?' portal, as well as how to amend returns and find change of address forms. We detail how heirs can recover funds owed to deceased family members and provide steps involved to prevent missed opportunities.
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