If you lived or worked in Texas during 2021 and didn’t file a federal tax return, you might be missing out on a big payday. According to the IRS, there’s a whopping $94.7 million in unclaimed refunds just waiting to be claimed by over 102,000 Texans. The average check? About $810. But here’s the catch—you only have until May 15, 2025 to file and claim what’s yours.
Opportunity
Let’s face it—life gets busy, and taxes aren’t exactly fun. But walking away from free money? That’s hard to ignore. Many people don’t file because they think they didn’t earn enough, misplaced their paperwork, or just didn’t know they could get a refund. This IRS alert is your reminder: if you didn’t file a 2021 return, do it now.
Why? Because after that May 15 deadline, the money disappears. It goes straight into Uncle Sam’s pocket, and there’s no getting it back. That’s three years of grace, and then—poof—it’s gone.
Reasons
So, why are refunds unclaimed in the first place? The reasons are surprisingly relatable:
- People assume they didn’t earn enough to qualify.
- Students or part-timers forget or underestimate their eligibility.
- Life events like illness, job loss, or disasters push tax filing aside.
- Missing forms like W-2s or 1099s cause delays—and eventually, inaction.
But none of these reasons are roadblocks you can’t overcome. The IRS even provides tools to help you retrieve old income documents. That’s your money—you just have to claim it.
Value
Here’s what’s at stake:
| Category | Texas Statistics |
|---|---|
| Unclaimed Refund Total | $94.7 million |
| Affected Texans | 102,200 individuals |
| Median Refund Amount | $810 |
| Deadline to Claim | May 15, 2025 |
| Potential EITC Benefit | Up to $6,728 |
This isn’t pocket change. Even if your refund isn’t thousands of dollars, it’s still money that can help pay for gas, groceries, bills, or debt.
Steps
Here’s how to get your hands on that refund:
Step 1
Track down your W-2s, 1099s, and any paperwork from that year. Can’t find them? Use the IRS Get Transcript tool.
Step 2
Go to the IRS website and download the proper tax return form for 2021. Note: old returns must be mailed in—no e-filing allowed.
Step 3
Complete the form carefully, double-check your math, and mail it to the correct address listed in the instructions. The postmark must be on or before May 15, 2025.
Step 4
Use the Where’s My Refund tool to keep tabs on your money. You’ll need your SSN, filing status, and refund amount.
Optional Help:
If you’re overwhelmed, consider visiting a VITA center or hiring a tax professional. They can help you claim all the credits you’re eligible for—including the big one…
Credits
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a hidden gem. It’s for low-to-moderate income earners and can boost your refund big time. Here’s the breakdown:
| Qualifying Children | Max EITC (2021) |
|---|---|
| 0 | $1,502 |
| 1 | $3,618 |
| 2 | $5,980 |
| 3+ | $6,728 |
Even if you didn’t owe taxes, the EITC can give you cash back. It’s seriously worth checking if you qualify.
Mistakes
Before you send off your return, don’t trip over these common errors:
- Wrong or outdated mailing address
- Missing your signature
- Incorrect Social Security numbers
- Forgetting income forms
- Math slip-ups
- Mailing it after the deadline
Double-check everything, or use tax software to make it easier. That refund is yours—don’t lose it over a simple error.
Time is ticking. That refund could cover groceries for a month or knock out a bill you’ve been dreading. Don’t let it go to waste. If you haven’t filed your 2021 return, now’s the time.
FAQs
Who qualifies for a 2021 refund?
Anyone who earned income in 2021 and didn’t file a return.
How do I get old W-2s or 1099s?
Use the IRS Get Transcript tool or contact your employer.
Can I file a 2021 return online?
No, 2021 returns must be mailed in by the deadline.
When is the last day to file?
May 15, 2025 is the final deadline to claim your refund.
What if I miss the deadline?
You forfeit the refund—it becomes property of the Treasury.
