back taxes

[Brookesmomma]

If we need to know what the IRS has showing for back taxes that have not yet been filed should he get a lawyer to do that? We heard it triggers the IRS to audit you?  Also how far back does he have to file his taxes? 

[DavidT0202]

Hi @Brookesmomma 

Lets Break down your questions: 

If we need to know what the IRS has showing for back taxes that have not yet been filed should he get a lawyer to do that?

If you owe back taxes you can go to IRS.gov  and pull a transcript from them.  It will show filings and taxes owed as long as a return has been filed for the years.

We heard it triggers the IRS to audit you? 

A lot of things can trigger an audit, but as long as you are taking care of the returns and filing accurate returns, there is nothing to worry about.  Audits are common and not as scary as most people think. 

Also how far back does he have to file his taxes? 

All tax returns where taxes are owed need to be filed, if a refund was due, you have 3 years to claim it.  You can file up to 3 years using TurboTax.  If you need to file for more then the 3 previous years, you will need to seek a local professional who might be able to file for the last 10 years for you. 

Thank you for choosing TurboTax!

[PerpetuaSG]

If you are expecting a refund, you risk losing your refund if you don't file your return. If you are due a refund for withholding or estimated taxes, you must file your return to claim it within 3 years of the return due date. The same rule applies to a right to claim tax credits such as the Earned Income Credit.

If you fail to file a return, the IRS may file a substitute return for you. This return might not give the credit for deductions and exemptions that you may be entitled to receive.  The IRS will send you a Notice of Deficiency CP3219N (90-day letter) proposing a tax assessment. You will have 90 days to file your past due tax return or file a petition in Tax Court. If you do neither, the IRS will proceed with our proposed assessment. 

If the IRS files a substitute return, it is still in your best interest to file your own tax return to take advantage of any exemptions, credits and deductions you are entitled to receive. The IRS will generally adjust your account to reflect the correct figures.

You can find helpful information about filing past due returns here