Contributed by: Henry, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro
Did a major life event prevent you from filing your 2016 tax return on time? Were you missing important documentation? Or maybe you simply procrastinated and forgot to file. Whatever the reason, if you missed the 2016 filing deadline, there may still be steps you can take.
The IRS requires taxpayers to file and claim refunds within three years of the filing deadline. After that window closes, any unclaimed refund becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.
At this point, you’re likely too late to receive a refund for 2016, and filing may not be worthwhile unless you believe you owe taxes. In that case, it’s important to file your tax return as soon as possible and work with the IRS to arrange payment.
Please note: FreeTaxUSA no longer supports 2016 tax return preparation. You’ll need to explore alternative methods to file for that year.
If you need to file a more recent return, FreeTaxUSA supports prior-year tax preparation for up to seven years. Visit our Prior Year landing page to see if your return qualifies and to get started.