If you are still waiting for a tax refund from the IRS, you are not alone. The IRS has reported that over $1 billion in unclaimed refunds are still available in 2025. Here is how you can claim your money before deadlines close.
Why refunds are missing in 2025
Several factors have contributed to delayed or missing refunds this year:
- Incomplete or incorrect tax filings
- Address changes not updated with the IRS
- Bank account changes affecting direct deposits
- IRS processing delays tied to past backlogs
Many Americans who did not file taxes for prior years, especially 2021 and 2022, may still be eligible for refunds if they file retroactively.
Steps to claim your missing refund
1. Check your refund status
Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov to track your current year’s refund.
For older refunds or unfiled returns, you must file a past-year tax return. The IRS only allows a three-year window to claim old refunds.
2. File missing tax returns
If you did not file in 2021, 2022, or 2023, you may still be eligible. File as soon as possible to prevent losing your refund. After the three-year limit, refunds become property of the U.S. Treasury.
3. Update your address or banking info
Use IRS Form 8822 to update your mailing address. If your direct deposit information has changed, notify the IRS immediately.
4. Respond to IRS notices quickly
If the IRS requires identity verification or additional documentation, respond immediately to avoid further delays.
When is the deadline to claim old refunds?
The deadline to file a 2021 tax return and claim any associated refund is July 15, 2025. Missing this date means you forfeit your refund permanently.
What if you owe the IRS?
If you have outstanding debts or owe federal taxes, the IRS may offset your refund to cover the balance. However, you should still file to confirm the amount.
Key takeaways
- Over $1 billion in refunds remain unclaimed in 2025.
- You must act before July 15, 2025, to claim a 2021 refund.
- Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool and file any missing returns immediately.
- Update your contact and bank information if it has changed.
For more help, visit the IRS Missing Refund Page or contact a tax professional.
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