Here's What Most People Don't Know
The IRS Didn't Wait for You
If you haven't filed after 3 years, the IRS files a "Substitute Return" for you. Not out of kindness—out of protocol. This is often worse than what your actual return would show.
Your transcript will show these with code 150 (Deficiency Assessment) + the amount the IRS claims you owe.
Penalties Have Been Piling Up
While you waited, the IRS was adding:
- •Failure to file penalty: 5% per month (up to 25%)
- •Failure to pay penalty: 0.5% per month (up to 25%)
- •Interest: Compounding daily at 8% per year
Example: $10,000 debt = $2,500-$5,000+ in penalties and interest after 5 years
You're Running Out of Time
The IRS has a 10-year statute of limitations to collect. But if you don't address this, that 10 years keeps resetting. You could be dealing with this indefinitely. Filing now stops the clock.
Your IRS Transcript Tells the Truth
Your transcript shows exactly what the IRS has recorded about your unfiled years. No guessing. No panic. Just facts.
Which Years Are Missing
Your transcript shows exactly which years haven't been filed. See the pattern. Is it 1 year? 5 years? 10 years?
IRS Substitute Returns Recorded
See if the IRS filed Substitute Returns for you. These will show code 150 and the amount the IRS estimated you owe.
Total Debt Accumulated
See the breakdown: original tax, penalties, and interest. Many people are shocked to discover it's much higher or lower than they thought.
Your Next Steps
Filing now can stop penalties. You have options. Your transcript will show which path makes sense for your situation.
Common Questions About Unfiled Years
Will the IRS prosecute me for not filing?
Rarely. The IRS is more interested in money than prosecution. They'll pursue civil penalties and interest. Filing now and working with them is your best protection.
Can I get relief for these years?
Yes—if you have a good reason for not filing, you can request "Reasonable Cause" relief on penalties. Your transcript will show whether you might qualify.
Do I have to file ALL those years?
The IRS requires returns for all open years (generally 7+ years back). But filing them now is often better than waiting. It stops penalties and gets the IRS off your back.
What if I'm owed refunds?
If some years show refunds, you can file those returns to claim the refund (within 3-year limit). Your transcript will show which years are still refundable.
The First Step: See What You're Dealing With
You can't fix what you don't understand. Your IRS transcript shows the truth. Let's look at it together.
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Get your IRS transcripts
Free from IRS.gov (select "Account Transcript")
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Upload to PROOF
We analyze everything and provide a detailed report
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Get Your Options
See your realistic next steps and resolution paths
Stop Worrying. See What You're Dealing With.
Get your IRS transcript analyzed. See exactly which years are unfiled, what the IRS has recorded, and your realistic options for moving forward.
Or talk to an expert: Expert Guidance ($1,500+)