The IRS says more than $1.2 billion in federal tax refunds from tax year 2022 are still waiting to be claimed — but time is running out. If you didn’t file a 2022 tax return, you may still be eligible for a refund, and the deadline to claim it is April 15.
Nationwide, the unclaimed refunds belong to roughly 1.3 million taxpayers who never filed their 2022 returns. The median refund is $686, which means many people could be owed even more.
Thousands of Georgia Taxpayers Still Owed Refunds
Here in Georgia alone, the IRS estimates that about 45,100 people still haven’t claimed their 2022 refunds. Altogether, that represents more than $38 million waiting to be returned to taxpayers.
The median potential refund for Georgia residents is about $645 — and that doesn’t include additional credits some taxpayers may qualify for.
Additional Credits Could Increase Your Refund
Your refund may be larger than expected if you were eligible for credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For tax year 2022, the EITC was worth as much as $6,935 for qualifying families with children.
Many taxpayers who skip filing because they think they won’t owe taxes actually miss out on refundable credits like this.
Why the April 15 Deadline Matters
Taxpayers generally have three years to file a return and claim a refund. After that window closes, any unclaimed money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury.
There’s another important detail: even if you’re owed a refund for 2022, the IRS may hold it if you haven’t filed your 2023 or 2024 tax returns. Refunds can also be applied toward:
- unpaid IRS balances
- state tax debts
- overdue student loans
- unpaid child support
- other federal obligations
How to Claim Your 2022 Refund Before Time Runs Out
If you think you may be owed money, you still have time — but not much. The IRS recommends gathering your documents as soon as possible. You can:
- access records using the Get Transcript Online tool
- request information with Form 4506-T
- download prior-year tax forms directly from IRS.gov
Including direct deposit information when you file can help you receive your refund faster and avoid delays.
Or you can do the easiest option and contact Morris and Associates. We can determine if you are owed money and file any unfiled tax return very quickly.
Don’t Leave Money Behind
If you didn’t file a 2022 return, there’s still a chance you could be owed hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars. But once the April 15 deadline passes, that money is gone for good.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a refund or need help filing a prior-year return, working with Morris and Associates will make the process much easier and help ensure nothing gets missed. Serving Gwinnett County and the Greater Atlanta area, we help taxpayers get every refund they deserve while avoiding errors or delays. Contact us today for a free 15 minute consulation.
