Filing tax returns isn’t just a financial responsibility—it’s a legal one. If you’ve missed one or more years of filing, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of Americans fail to submit their tax returns for various reasons—personal hardship, confusion, fear, or simple oversight. Whatever the cause, having an unfiled tax return can quickly lead to serious consequences, including penalties, interest, wage garnishments, and even criminal charges in extreme cases.
At Carver Law Office, PLLC, we understand that falling behind can be overwhelming, but the good news is: you can take steps today to correct the problem and reduce your liability. Here’s how to get started.
Step 1: Don’t Ignore the Problem
The IRS doesn’t forget. Even if you haven’t heard from them yet, unfiled tax returns can eventually lead to enforcement actions, such as:
- Levy and wage garnishment
- Tax liens on your property
- Seizure of refunds or assets
- Criminal investigation in rare cases
Avoiding the issue only makes things worse. Instead, take proactive action before the IRS does.
Learn how we’ve helped clients resolve tough tax issues.
Step 2: Determine Which Years Are Missing
You’ll first need to identify which tax years you’ve missed. You can request your account transcripts directly from the IRS or consult a tax attorney who can help you obtain and interpret them.
In most situations, the IRS expects taxpayers to submit returns for the past six years to meet compliance standards, though individual circumstances may vary.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Documentation
To file back taxes, you’ll need key financial records from those years, including:
- W-2s, 1099s, and other income statements
- Bank statements
- Business income and expenses (if self-employed)
- Prior year tax documents (if available)
If you’re missing documents, a skilled tax attorney can help you reconstruct your income using IRS-provided information.
Step 4: File the Unfiled Returns
Once you’ve gathered the documents, it’s time to file. Depending on your situation, you may want to:
- File all years at once to show good faith
- Submit one return at a time starting with the most recent
- Work with a tax professional to ensure accuracy and reduce red flags
At Carver Law Office, PLLC, we offer hands-on help in preparing and submitting back tax returns safely and correctly. We also help clients explore relief options available once returns are submitted.
View our full range of tax relief services.
Step 5: Address Any Tax Debt or Penalties
Filing is just the beginning. After your tax filings are reviewed by the IRS, it’s possible you’ll learn that additional taxes, late fees, or accrued interest are owed. Fortunately, several programs exist to help reduce or manage what you owe:
- Installment Agreements to pay over time
- Currently Not Collectible status for financial hardship cases
- Offer in Compromise (OIC) to settle for less than owed
- Penalty Abatement to remove some penalties
- Bankruptcy options, depending on the tax debt
An experienced tax attorney can evaluate your eligibility and help you apply for the right program.
Step 6: Protect Yourself from Enforcement
The longer you wait to file or resolve your back taxes, the more risk you face. IRS enforcement may include:
- Wage garnishments
- Bank levies
- Liens on property
- Seizure of state refunds
Our firm can help stop or release levies, garnishments, and liens, and communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
Contact us today for immediate help.
Step 7: Work with a Qualified Tax Attorney
Unlike general tax preparers, a tax attorney offers legal protection and representation. At Carver Law Office, PLLC, we focus exclusively on tax law, and we understand how to handle:
- Complex IRS disputes
- Audits and appeals
- Innocent spouse relief
- Payroll tax problems
- Tax litigation and collections defense
We advocate for our clients every step of the way, and we don’t stop until we find a workable, long-term resolution.
Why Choose Carver Law Office, PLLC?
With years of focused tax law experience, Carver Law Office, PLLC provides:
- Personalized legal strategy tailored to your situation
- Work directly with an experienced tax attorney, rather than being routed through a generic call center.
- Honest guidance and clear communication
- A history of favorable outcomes for clients in Oklahoma and beyond
Find out why clients trust us.
Don’t Wait—Take the First Step Today
Unfiled tax returns don’t go away on their own, but you don’t have to face the IRS alone. Whether you’ve missed one year or several, taking action now can save you money, time, and stress down the road.
Reach out to Carver Law Office, PLLC now to schedule a private consultation and take the first step toward resolving your tax concerns with clarity and assurance.
