The IRS has warned that time is running out for over a million taxpayers to file their tax returns and claim unclaimed refunds from 2021.

According to the IRS, more than 1.1 million taxpayers have yet to file their 2021 tax returns, risking the loss of over $1 billion in unclaimed refunds. The deadline to submit tax returns for 2021 is April 15, 2025.

The median refund for 2021 is estimated at $781, with half of the refunds being larger and half smaller. This estimate does not include credits like the Recovery Rebate Credit or other potential credits.

Taxpayers have three years to file their returns and claim their refunds. If they miss the deadline, the money will go to the U.S. Treasury.

Potential Lost Benefits for Taxpayers
By not filing their tax returns, taxpayers may miss out on more than just refunds. Many low- and moderate-income workers may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). In 2021, the EITC could provide up to $6,728 for taxpayers with qualifying children.

The EITC eligibility depends on income and family size. For 2021, the income limits for EITC were:

• $51,464 for taxpayers with three or more qualifying children
• $47,915 for those with two qualifying children
• $42,158 for those with one qualifying child
• $21,430 for taxpayers without children

Delays Due to Missing Returns for 2022 and 2023
Taxpayers trying to claim their 2021 refund may face delays if they haven’t filed their tax returns for 2022 and 2023.

How Taxpayers Can Access Past Tax Documents
Getting the right documents for a prior year like 2021 can be challenging. However, the IRS offers several ways to help taxpayers gather necessary information.

Taxpayers can use the IRS’s Individual Online Account to access transcripts, tax account details, wage and income statements, and even verification of non-filing letters.

If taxpayers are missing documents such as Forms W-2, 1098, 1099, or 5498, they can request copies from their employer, bank, or other financial institutions. For those who cannot access these documents online, they can request a tax return or account transcript by mail through the IRS’s Get Transcript by Mail service or via an automated phone request.

Another option is to file Form 4506-T to request a wage and income transcript, though this process can take several weeks.

Taxpayers looking to file 2021 returns can access the correct version of Form 1040 on the IRS website or call the IRS toll-free at 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).