Unclaimed Tax Refunds
The IRS holds over $1 billion in unclaimed tax refunds each year. Refund checks mailed to outdated addresses go undelivered, and millions of Americans never file for refunds they are owed. Find out how to get yours.
Why Tax Refunds Go Unclaimed
Tax refunds go unclaimed for several common reasons: the refund check was mailed to an old address and returned undeliverable, the taxpayer moved without updating their address with the IRS, or the taxpayer did not file a return for a year in which they were owed a refund.
The IRS estimates that over 1 million taxpayers are owed refunds each year from returns that were never filed. People who earn below the filing threshold but had taxes withheld from their paycheck may be owed a refund without realizing it.
State tax refunds work similarly — each state manages its own unclaimed refund checks separately. If you move between states, you may have unclaimed refunds from multiple states. Most uncashed state tax refund checks eventually become unclaimed property in that state's program.
How to Find and Claim Your Tax Refund
- 1
Check the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool
Visit irs.gov/refunds to check the status of a recent federal refund. You will need your SSN, filing status, and exact refund amount.
- 2
File any unfiled returns
If you did not file a return for a year you were owed a refund, file now. The IRS generally allows up to 3 years from the original due date to claim your refund.
- 3
Request a replacement check
If a refund check was issued but you never received it, contact the IRS to request a replacement. You can call 1-800-829-1040 or use IRS Form 3911 to trace the payment.
- 4
Search state unclaimed property databases
Uncashed state tax refund checks that have gone through the escheatment process will appear in your state's unclaimed property database. Search every state where you have filed taxes.
- 5
Update your address
File IRS Form 8822 to update your address with the IRS to prevent future refunds from going missing.
States with the Most Unclaimed Tax Refunds
Populous states naturally have more unclaimed state tax refunds. If you have lived or worked in any of these states, check their unclaimed property databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find an unclaimed IRS refund?
Use the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool at irs.gov/refunds to check the status of a recent refund. For older refunds (more than 3 years), you may need to file an amended return. For refunds issued by check that were never cashed, contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 to request a replacement check.
How long does the IRS keep unclaimed refunds?
The IRS has a 3-year statute of limitations for claiming a tax refund. If you did not file a return or claim your refund within 3 years of the original filing deadline, the IRS may no longer issue the refund. However, the IRS holds undeliverable refund checks for 1 year, after which they are cancelled and the funds revert to the US Treasury.
Can I still claim a tax refund from 3 years ago?
Generally yes, as long as it hasn't been more than 3 years since the original filing deadline for that tax year. For example, for the 2021 tax year (originally due April 2022), you typically have until April 2025 to claim your refund. File your return or contact the IRS before the deadline passes.
What if my refund check was lost in the mail?
If you believe your IRS refund check was lost or stolen, you can request a replacement through the IRS. Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visit a local IRS office. You can also use the IRS online tool to request a payment trace if it has been more than 5 weeks since the refund was mailed.
How do I update my address with the IRS?
You can update your address with the IRS by filing Form 8822 (Change of Address), by notifying the IRS in writing with your signature, or by using the USPS Address Change Service. You can also update your address when you file your next tax return. It is important to update your address promptly to ensure future correspondence and refunds reach you.