What Happens If You Don’t File Taxes at All?

Modified on Wed, 11 Nov at 3:48 PM

Consequences of Not Filing

If you don’t file a tax return, the IRS may eventually prepare a return for you using income documents they receive. This usually results in a higher balance since they won’t include deductions or credits you’re entitled to.


IRS Penalties for Not Filing

  • Failure-to-File Penalty: 5% of the unpaid tax per month, up to 25%.
  • Failure-to-Pay Penalty: 0.5% per month, up to 25%.
  • Interest: Accrues daily on unpaid balances.


Steps to Get Back on Track

  • File as soon as possible, even if late—reduces penalties. You can file quickly and securely online at EasyTaxReturns.com.
  • Pay what you can to cut down interest.
  • Consider requesting a payment plan via the Online Payment Agreement.


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