Haven't Filed a Tax Return? Here's What to Do
Taxpayers should file all required returns that are past due now to avoid additional penalties and interest. This section gives information on getting help and documents needed to prepare a return. It is never too late to file.
How Full Payment of Taxes Saves You Money
Paying your taxes in full ultimately saves you more money. Take action now or you may face additional interest and penalties.
Payment Options - Ways To Make a Payment
There are several different ways to make a payment on your taxes. Payments can be made by credit card, electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier's check, or cash.
Other Ways to Resolve Tax Debt That Could Save You Money
Taxpayers unable to pay all taxes due on the bill are encouraged to pay as much as possible. By paying as much as possible now, the amount of interest and penalties owed will be lessened. Based on the circumstances, a taxpayer could qualify for an extension of time to pay, an Installment Agreement, temporary delay, or Offer in Compromise.
What Will Happen If You Don't File Your Past Due Return or Contact the IRS
The IRS will file a substitute return for you, which will not include any additional exemptions or expenses you may be entitled to and may overstate your real tax liability. Once the tax is assessed the IRS will start the collection process, which can include placing a levy on wages or bank accounts or filing a federal tax lien against your property.
References/Related Topics
- How Borrowing Money to Pay Your Taxes Could Cost You Less Than An Installment Agreement
- Frequently Asked Questions For Past Due Return Filers
- Getting Free Help
- Why an Installment Agreement Will Cost You More
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Whether paying with a timely filed tax return, or filing late and paying late after receiving a bill from the IRS (and the bill is correct), taxpayers are encouraged to pay the taxes they owe in full.
If taxes are not paid, and no effort is made to pay them, the IRS can ask a taxpayer to take action to pay the taxes, such as selling or mortgaging any assets owned or getting a loan. If effort is still not made to pay the bill, or make other payment arrangements, the IRS could also take more serious enforced collection action, such as levying bank accounts, wages, or other income, or taking other assets. A Notice of Federal Tax Lien could be filed that may have a detrimental effect on a taxpayer's credit standing. See information about Liens and Levies.
