If you didn’t file your tax return for 2021 in the United States, this is your final reminder. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) has announced that over 1.1 million people still haven’t claimed their 2021 tax refunds. The total unclaimed money is over $1 billion, and the average refund is about $781 per person.
But here’s the catch: if you don’t file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025, you will lose your right to this money forever. The unclaimed funds will go to the U.S. Treasury.
So, if you’re eligible, act now before it’s too late.
What Is This Unclaimed Refund About?
Many people missed out on important benefits in 2021, including the Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit is for those who did not receive their stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can still claim it now, but only if you file your 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025.
In December 2024, the IRS automatically paid out over $2.4 billion to those who had already filed, but if you didn’t send in your return, the clock is ticking.
What You Need to Do Now
Even if your income in 2021 was zero or very low, you still need to file Form 1040 to claim any refund or credit. The U.S. tax law allows people only three years from the original filing date to claim a refund.
After April 15, 2025, there are no extensions, and your money will be gone for good.
How to Claim Your Refund
Here’s how you can speed up the process:
Create an online account at the IRS website (search for “IRS online account”)
Download and fill out Form 1040 for 2021
Request missing income documents (like W-2s or 1099s) using Form 4506-T
Call 800-908-9946 or 800-TAX-FORM if you need help
Visit IRS.gov/forms-instructions to access and download necessary documents
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
This credit helps people who missed out on stimulus checks. In 2021, you could get:
- $1,400 per adult
- $2,800 for couples
- An extra $1,400 for each child or dependent
So a family of four could get up to $5,600. This credit is refundable, which means even if you had no income, you could still get this money.
Also, this credit does not affect your eligibility for other programs like SNAP or SSI, making it especially helpful for low-income families.
What If You’re Missing Documents?
Many people delay filing because they lost their income records like W-2 or 1099 forms. But don’t worry—the IRS lets you request these documents through their tools. It may take time, so don’t wait until the last minute.
You can also call IRS support, or go to Low-Income Tax Clinics, which help people with little or no income to file tax returns properly.
Final Reminder Before the Deadline
The IRS has clearly said: April 15, 2025, is the final deadline. If you miss it, your refund goes to the U.S. Treasury and you won’t be able to claim it later.
You’re just a few steps away from receiving what’s rightfully yours. Whether it’s $700 or more, don’t let your hard-earned money slip away. Act now, file your 2021 tax return, and claim your refund before it’s too late.
