---
title: What Happens If I Have Unfiled Tax Returns? | TaxTruce
url: https://taxtruce.com/answers/what-happens-if-i-have-unfiled-tax-returns
updated: 2026-10-29
---

# What happens if I have unfiled tax returns?

Updated October 8, 20262 sourcesTaxTruce team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

The IRS may file a substitute return for you, which can miss deductions. That leads to a tax bill and, if unpaid, liens and levies. Penalties grow while you wait. People who repeatedly don't file can face more penalties and criminal prosecution.

Filing your own return is still better, even after a substitute return.

## Sources

1. [IRS: Filing past due tax returns](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/filing-past-due-tax-returns)
2. [IRS: Failure to file penalty](https://www.irs.gov/payments/failure-to-file-penalty)

Run the numbers with our [free tax tools](/tools), like the penalty and payment plan math.