Late Tax Filing 2021

Handling taxes can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve forgotten or postponed filing and missed the deadline. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s not too late to get back on track.

While the 2021 tax season is long behind us, unfiled taxes can lead to complications with the IRS, such as penalties, interest, and even enforcement actions. Luckily, the IRS provides options to help taxpayers manage late filings and address outstanding issues, but navigating this process can be confusing, stressful, and time-consuming without proper guidance.

At Paramount, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses manage everything tax-related, including late filing. Our team of professionals will guide you through every step of the process, from understanding your options to submitting your forms, ensuring everything is handled accurately and efficiently.

Learn more about late tax filing for 2021, and contact the Paramount advisers if you need advice, guidance, or support.

If You Were Owed a Refund on Your 2021 Taxes

Here are a few things to understand about 2021 late tax filings and unclaimed returns:

• IRS Notices: If you missed the 2021 tax filing deadline, the IRS may have already sent notices or warnings regarding your unfiled return. These notices are critical, as they may include required actions and specific due dates.
• Filing for Refund: If you were owed a refund for your 2021 taxes, it’s not too late to claim it! The IRS allows a three-year window to file and collect your refund. For 2021 returns, this means you have until April 2025 to file.
• No Penalties: If you don’t owe the IRS any money, you won’t face penalties for filing late. However, it’s still better to file sooner rather than later to ensure you don’t miss the chance to claim your refund.
• Claim Tax Credits and Deductions: Late filers may still be eligible for certain tax credits or deductions. Filing your 2021 taxes allows you to take full advantage of benefits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit, which could significantly increase your refund amount.

If You Owe The IRS Money and You Haven’t Filed

Failing to file your taxes when you owe the IRS money has serious consequences. Here’s what you need to know about the potential penalties and actions the IRS can take:

• Failure to File Penalty (FTF): If you owe money and haven’t filed your tax return, the IRS imposes a failure-to-file penalty of 5% per month on unpaid taxes, up to a maximum of 25% of the total taxes owed. Even if you owe a small amount, this penalty can quickly add up.
• Failure to Pay Penalty: In addition to the failure-to-file penalty, the IRS also charges a failure-to-pay penalty if taxes remain unpaid after filing. This penalty accrues at a rate of 0.5% per month of the unpaid balance and continues until the taxes are paid in full.

Together, FTF and FTP penalties can significantly increase the amount you owe

• IRS Filing for You: If you fail to file your taxes, the IRS may step in and file a substitute return on your behalf. While this might sound helpful, it can result in much higher tax liability. The IRS will not take into account deductions, credits, or exemptions that you might be eligible for.
• Debt Collection: When unpaid taxes continue to grow, the IRS may escalate collection efforts. This can include actions like seizing property, wage garnishments, and even freezing bank accounts.

If you’re worried about the money you owe for 2021 taxes, contact a professional tax company like Paramount as soon as possible. Advisors can help you explore options like setting up payment plans and negotiating penalty reductions.

Impact of COVID-19 and Relief Programs

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected tax processes in 2021. Here's how these changes might impact you:

1. Tax Filing Delays: In response to the pandemic, the IRS extended several filing deadlines in 2020 and 2021 to give taxpayers more time to submit their returns. Late filers may still be impacted by these changes depending on their circumstances.
2. Stimulus Payments: If you missed claiming stimulus payments, also known as Economic Impact Payments, or other relief credits on your 2021 return, you might still be eligible to receive them. Filing your taxes, even if you are filing late, allows you to claim these benefits if you qualify.
3. Penalties for Late Filing: While some relief programs postponed deadlines, penalties for late filing or payments may still apply. However, the IRS has provided certain leniency for individuals affected by COVID-related problems.
4. Possible Payment Extensions: Taxpayers facing financial difficulties due to COVID-19 can request extensions or set up payment plans for overdue taxes. The IRS offers multiple options to assist those unable to pay their tax liabilities.

For more information about COVID-19 tax relief for 2020 or 2021, visit the IRS website or reach out to the Paramount team. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have or provide additional information.

Get Back in Good Standing with the IRS

If you’ve fallen behind on your 2021 tax filing, the Paramount Tax and Accounting team can help you get back on track. Whether you’re owed a refund or need assistance managing your payments to the IRS, we’ll provide personalized, accurate, and efficient tax advice and services tailored to your needs.

At Paramount, we’ve successfully helped countless clients resolve late tax filing issues and restore their good standing with the IRS. We believe that transparency is key to achieving the best outcomes, and our team will address your tax situation with honesty, care, and expert knowledge.

Don’t wait to take action. Contact Paramount today for a consultation on your 2021 late tax filing.