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IRS Deadline Passed, But You Can Still Claim $1 Billion in Unclaimed Tax Refunds

Tax Day has come and gone, but the IRS says more than $1 billion in unclaimed refunds are still available to taxpayers who haven’t filed their 2021 return.

Millions of Americans may be owed money and still have time to collect it—but they must act fast. The deadline to file and claim these refunds is May 17, 2025.

Tax refund notice surrounded by a pile of hundred-dollar bills and various completed tax forms, representing financial returns during tax season.

Who Qualifies for an Unclaimed Refund?

Anyone who didn’t file a federal tax return for 2021 could qualify. Many of these unfiled returns belong to low- or moderate-income earners who were not required to file—but could still be owed money from:

  • Federal tax withholdings
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
  • Child Tax Credit (CTC)

The IRS estimates that the median refund for 2021 is $932—meaning half of the unclaimed checks are worth more than that.

How to Claim Your Refund Before the Deadline

To receive your 2021 refund, you must submit a 2021 Form 1040 to the IRS by May 17, 2025. You can download the form at IRS.gov or work with a tax professional to file retroactively.

If you don’t file in time, federal law will block the IRS from issuing your refund. After May 17, the unclaimed money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

When filing late, double-check these things to avoid delays:

  • Use the correct form for tax year 2021
  • Include W-2s, 1099s, or other income forms
  • Make sure your mailing address and bank info are current

If you’re claiming credits like the EITC, include proper documentation to support your eligibility.

Don’t Miss Out on Your Money

The IRS doesn’t charge penalties for filing a refund-only return late, so there’s no downside if you’re owed money.

Tip: If you’re missing documents, you can request past wage or income transcripts from the IRS using Form 4506-T or by logging into your IRS account.

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