Millions of Americans Are Missing Out on Tax Refunds
Millions of Americans may be missing out on money they are owed through unclaimed tax refunds. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), over $1.2 billion in refunds from the 2022 tax year remain unclaimed, with more than 1.3 million taxpayers potentially eligible to receive funds they never collected.
There is a limited window to act: The deadline to claim these refunds is April 15, 2026. After that date, any unclaimed funds will become property of the U.S. Treasury.
Why Are Tax Refunds Going Unclaimed?
Each year, billions of dollars in refunds go unclaimed for a variety of reasons. Some individuals may not realize they are required to file, while others assume they will not receive a refund due to low income. In many cases, life circumstances such as job changes, housing instability, or lack of access to reliable tax preparation services can delay or prevent filing.
However, it is important to understand that even if you do not owe taxes, you may still be eligible for a refund.
California Credits Like CalEITC May Also Go Unclaimed
In addition to federal refunds, Californians who did not file their 2022 tax return may also be missing out on valuable state credits like the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). This refundable credit can provide cash back or reduce taxes owed, but it is only available to those who file a California state tax return. The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) also notes that individuals may be able to claim CalEITC for prior years by filing or amending a return, meaning eligible taxpayers still have time to receive money they are owed.
Who Should Check Their Eligibility?
You may be eligible for an unclaimed refund if you:
- Worked or earned income in 2022
- Did not file a 2022 tax return
- Had taxes withheld from your paycheck
- Qualify for refundable tax credits
Many individuals and families—especially those with low to moderate income—may also qualify for valuable credits, including:
- The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC)
- The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC)
These credits are designed to support working individuals and families and can significantly increase the amount of a refund.
How Much Money Could You Be Missing?
While refund amounts vary, the IRS estimates that over 1.3 million people are owed a share of the $1.2 billion total in unclaimed refunds. (Forbes, 2026)
For many households, this can mean receiving hundreds or even thousands of dollars. These are funds that individuals have already earned and are entitled to receive.
Important Deadline: April 15, 2026
The IRS allows taxpayers up to three years to file and claim a refund. After that period, the opportunity is lost permanently.
For 2022 tax returns, the final deadline is:
April 15, 2026
If you do not file by this date, you will no longer be able to claim your refund.
How to Claim Your Refund for Free
Filing your taxes and claiming your refund does not have to be complicated or expensive.
Through Haven Services’ FILE4FREE program, eligible individuals can:
- File their taxes with IRS-certified preparers
- Receive assistance in claiming all eligible tax credits
- Access free services either in person or online
- Avoid high fees often charged by paid preparers
This service is designed to ensure that individuals receive the full amount they are entitled to, without unnecessary costs.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Every year, millions of dollars in refunds go unclaimed—not because people do not qualify, but because they do not file.
If you earned income in 2022 and have not yet filed your taxes, now is the time to take action. Filing your return could mean receiving money that can help cover essential expenses, build savings, or reduce financial stress.
Get Started Today
If you think you may be eligible for an unclaimed refund, support is available.
Visit FILE4FREE.org to book a free appointment or call 213-375-4663 to find a location near you.
Free tax preparation services are available to eligible individuals and families through trusted, IRS-certified professionals. With the April 15, 2026 deadline approaching, now is the time to file and claim what you are owed.