Why You Need to File Back Taxes

The longer you wait to file your unfiled returns, the more serious the consequences:


  • The IRS can file for you — and they won’t include deductions or expenses
  • You can lose your refund after 3 years
  • You may face penalties and interest that grow monthly
  • You risk levies, garnishments, or liens if balances go unpaid


Failing to file can lead to IRS CP504 notices (received an IRS CP504 notice? Act fast) or even levies — learn how to stop them (stop state and federal levies).  In many cases, people who are afraid to file actually end up  owing less than they think once deductions are properly applied. You may even qualify for an Offer in Compromise or qualify for IRS Currently Not Collectible

We Make Catching Up Simple and Confidential

Here’s how we help you file unfiled returns the right way:


  1. Transcript Pull & Review — We pull your IRS and FTB wage & income records to see what’s on file.
  2. Return Reconstruction — We recreate tax years using provided documents and IRS data.
  3. Filing Back Tax Returns — We prepare and file each return, including federal and state.
  4. Strategic Timing — We plan the filing sequence to reduce penalties or pursue resolution options.


Whether you're missing 1 year or 10+, we know how to structure your catch-up process.

Unfiled Returns We Commonly Handle:

  • Personal returns (1040) — 1 to 10+ years
  • Business returns (1120, 1120S, 1065)
  • Self-employed / contractor income
  • Rental property owners with missing Schedule E forms
  • FTB and multi-state filings


We also work with clients who have received:

  • IRS Notice CP59 (no return on file)
  • IRS Substitute for Return (SFR) filings
  • FTB 4600 or 5956 notices


Already getting notices? Learn about FTB Collections Help


Get Back on Track – Without Fear, Judgment, or Surprises

Whether you're behind one year or ten, we’ll help you fix it and move forward and help you find relief options if you owe back taxes and also understand income tax enforcement.


Schedule a confidential review today and let’s get your filings caught up.


See our tax resolution pricing


[Book Your Consultation] [Call 657-218-5700] [Email marc@boulangercpa.com]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get a refund on unfiled returns?

Possibly. The IRS has a three-year deadline to claim a refund. If you’re filing a return more than three years late, you may forfeit your refund — even if it was due to you. We’ll check your transcripts and help you recover everything you’re legally entitled to.

Will the IRS arrest me for not filing?

In almost all cases, no. While failure to file is technically a misdemeanor, jail time is extremely rare and typically reserved for cases involving fraud or evasion. Our job is to get you compliant and reduce your risk before things escalate.

Can I file online or with TurboTax?

If you're dealing with more than one year of unfiled returns or IRS enforcement, using DIY tax software is risky. We use IRS transcripts and professional tools to make sure your filings are accurate, strategic, and won’t trigger an audit.

Do I have to pay everything at once?

No. Filing your returns is the first step. From there, we assess your situation and may pursue an Offer in Compromise, Installment Agreement, or Currently Not Collectible status. Most clients do not pay the full balance up front — and you may not have to either.