I haven't filed one or more years, or I missed my extension deadline. What do I do?
Short answer
File as soon as you can, because penalties and interest keep growing. DeCypher works with creators who have unfiled years through a custom package built around how many years are open and how complete your records are.
Otavio Mayole, Co-founder, DeCypher FinancialsUpdated
Why it's worth acting now:
- The penalty for not filing usually grows faster than the penalty for not paying.
- If you're owed a refund, you generally only have a few years to claim it.
- Unfiled returns can hold up a mortgage, a loan or a lease.
How we handle it:
- Pull your IRS records. You sign Form 8821 so we can see what the IRS has on file for you. We use it as a cross-check, not the only source, because transcripts can miss income.
- Gather statements for each open year.
- Rebuild the books for each year.
- File the returns, in the order that makes sense for your situation.
- Set up a payment plan if you owe.
Be honest about timing. If you come to us days before a deadline, we may not be able to promise it's filed on time. We'll tell you up front.
We've worked with creators who had several years unfiled. Getting it done is a relief, and it's the first step to planning instead of reacting.