If you’ve fallen behind on filing your taxes, take a deep breath, you’re not the only one. Life happens. Maybe you switched jobs, lost paperwork, or went through a tough time. Whatever the reason, unfiled returns don’t have to haunt you forever.
At Geaux Tax Resolution, we’ve helped people all over Mandeville, Lafayette, and across Louisiana get back in good standing with the IRS, and with peace of mind. Here’s what really happens when you don’t file, how far back you need to go, and how we can make the process simple.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Unfiled Taxes
When you miss filing deadlines, the IRS doesn’t just move on. They keep your records open — and eventually they act. Here’s what that can mean:
- Substitute Returns: If you don’t file, the IRS may file a “Substitute for Return” (SFR) using only your reported income. They won’t include deductions or credits you qualify for, which can make your bill much higher than it should be.
- Penalties and Interest: The IRS adds a “failure to file” penalty plus daily interest. Those numbers grow fast.
- Lost Refunds: You only have three years to claim a refund. After that, the money’s gone.
- Collection Actions: The longer you wait, the more likely the IRS will garnish wages or freeze bank accounts.
It’s never too late to fix it — but the sooner you act, the more options you’ll have.
How Far Back Do You Need to File?
Good news: the IRS usually requires only the last six years of tax returns to get you back in compliance.
That rule comes from IRS Policy Statement 5-133, which lets taxpayers “start fresh” if they file six consecutive years and stay current after that.
However, some situations call for more:
- If the IRS already filed Substitute Returns for you.
- If fraud or large income omissions are involved.
- If you also owe Louisiana state taxes, since the Louisiana Department of Revenue may request additional years.
That’s why working with a local team that understands both federal and state requirements makes a huge difference.
How to Catch Up, Step by Step
If you’re ready to get caught up, here’s how we can help you take it one step at a time:
1. Gather Your Documents
We’ll help you track down missing W-2s, 1099s, and other income records. If you’ve lost them, we can request IRS transcripts on your behalf.
2. Organize Year by Year
Each return builds on the previous one, so we’ll file in order to keep everything accurate.
3. Prepare and File Your Returns
Our team reviews every return to make sure you claim the credits and deductions you deserve — like education expenses or self-employment deductions.
4. Address Any Balances Owed
If you owe, don’t panic. We can set up a manageable IRS payment plan or request penalty abatement to reduce extra fees.
5. Confirm Compliance
Once you’re caught up, we’ll make sure your IRS record shows all returns as filed and in good standing.
Why Filing Now Is Better Than Waiting
Voluntarily filing before the IRS contacts you shows good faith — and that can help you qualify for more relief options.
Our clients often tell us they wish they’d come to us sooner. Not just because we saved them money, but because they finally slept better knowing it was handled.
How Geaux Tax Resolution Helps Louisiana Taxpayers
Catching up on multiple years of unfiled returns can feel intimidating — but we make it easy. Here’s how our Louisiana-based team can help:
- Retrieve missing documents and IRS records.
- Prepare accurate federal and state returns.
- Replace IRS Substitute Returns with correct ones.
- Prevent levies while we get you compliant.
- Negotiate affordable payment plans or penalty relief.
Whether you’re in Mandeville, Lafayette, or anywhere in Louisiana, you’ll work with a local team that cares about your story — not just your numbers.
The Benefits of Getting Caught Up
Once you file those missing returns, you’ll unlock a lot more than tax relief:
- Regain eligibility for refunds and credits.
- Protect your business or professional licenses.
- Stop wage garnishments and bank levies.
- Reduce stress and move forward with confidence.
The IRS may seem intimidating, but they prefer working with taxpayers who come forward on their own — especially with a professional representative by their side.
Ready to Get Back on Track? We’re Here for You.
It’s never too late to make things right with the IRS. At Geaux Tax Resolution, we help good people who’ve fallen behind get caught up with understanding and care — not judgment.
📍 Mandeville Office
1795 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 102 | (985) 722-1040
📍 Lafayette Office
3909-L Ambassador Caffery, Suite B | (337) 420-1040
Let’s put the past behind you and help you move forward with confidence — one return at a time.
