Time Is Running Out: IRS Warns Taxpayers to Claim 2021 Refunds Before April 15
- Marino Tax Solutions
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Did you know there’s over $1 billion in unclaimed tax refunds waiting to be collected? The IRS has issued an urgent reminder to taxpayers: the deadline to file a 2021 tax return and claim your refund is April 15, 2025. That means there’s a limited window to recover money that rightfully belongs to you. If you haven’t filed yet, now is the time to act—before the opportunity disappears for good.
What’s at Stake For Missing 2021?
The IRS estimates that more than 940,000 individuals across the country are still eligible for a 2021 refund. The median potential refund is $781, with some individuals qualifying for even more depending on their personal tax situations. These funds represent more than just money—they’re resources that could help pay down debt, cover rising living expenses, or invest in your future.
But here's the catch: if you don’t file by April 15, the government keeps the money—no questions asked. The refund is permanently forfeited, and there are no appeals once the deadline has passed.
In addition to standard refunds, many taxpayers who missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) during the COVID-19 pandemic may still qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit—worth up to $1,400 per person. This credit was designed to support individuals and families who faced financial hardship, but it must be claimed by filing your 2021 return.
Why You Might Have Missed Filing Your 2021 Tax Refund
You’re not alone. Thousands of people miss filing deadlines every year, often for completely understandable reasons:
Earning below the IRS filing threshold and assuming a return wasn’t necessary
Pandemic-related disruptions, such as illness, job changes, or relocation
Lack of awareness of refundable credits or eligibility for stimulus funds
Procrastination or confusion about the filing process
But here's the good news: even if you didn’t earn enough to be legally required to file, you may still be leaving money on the table. Refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit (CTC) could significantly boost your refund—even if no taxes were withheld.
How to File 2021 Tax Return Now
It’s not too late, but you need to move quickly. To claim your 2021 refund:
Gather your tax documents – W-2s, 1099s, and any supporting income or benefit statements.
Use reliable tax software or visit a tax preparer to file electronically for the fastest processing time.
Mail a paper return to the IRS if necessary, but ensure it’s postmarked no later than April 15, 2025.
Seek expert help – If you’re unsure about your eligibility or if you're missing documents, a tax professional can help you navigate the process and avoid errors.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Unfortunately, the IRS imposes a strict three-year window to claim tax refunds. Once that time is up, the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury. You won’t be able to access it in the future, no matter your circumstances. There are no extensions or grace periods—it’s a hard deadline.
If you’re owed a refund, missing out on that money is like giving away free cash. And in today’s economy, every dollar counts.
Why Marino Tax Solutions?
We understand that life gets busy and tax rules can be overwhelming. That’s why we specialize in helping individuals and families recover missed refunds, file back taxes, and take advantage of every credit available to them.
At Marino Tax Solutions we are committed to informing you about the latest tax policies and programs, including updates from the IRS, to ensure our clients receive accurate guidance for making informed financial choices.
Curious about how these tax changes could impact your personal or business finances? Marino Tax Solutions is here to assist you. Contact us today for a Free Consultation and customized tax planning solutions to help you stay ahead and capitalize on these new opportunities.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered tax advice. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Please consult with a tax professional like Marino Tax Solutions to discuss your specific circumstances.
