three years
In most cases, an original return claiming a refund must be filed within three years of its due date for the IRS to issue a refund. Generally, after the three-year window closes, the IRS can neither send a refund for the specific tax year.

How do I get my tax return from 2004?

Request transcripts by calling 1-800-829-1040, or order by mail using IRS Form 4506-T, “Request for Transcript of Tax Form.” Specify the type of transcript you are requesting. The IRS does not charge a fee for transcripts, which are available for the current and three prior calendar years. Allow two weeks for delivery.

How do I get my tax return from 2005?

Here’s how to get a transcript:

1. Order Online. The fastest way to get a Tax Return or Account transcript is through the ‘Get Transcript’ tool available on IRS.gov.
2. Order by phone. You can also order by phone at 800-908-9946 and follow the prompts.
3. Order by mail.

How did the IRS not receive my 2006 tax return?

The IRS relied on the testimony of a bankruptcy specialist who interpreted the IRS transcript. This specialist explained how the IRS records regarding the 2006 year showed that the IRS had not received the 2006 return. The bankruptcy specialist also testified that she had never known the IRS to lose a return.

What happens if you do not file taxes in 2011?

So if you did not file in 2011 or 2010, you have forfeited those refunds to the government. There’s no getting them back now. However, if you have not yet filed a return for 2012, 2013 or 2014, you can still file and receive any refund due.

What happens if I haven’t filed a tax return in years?

I haven’t filed a tax return in a long time – maybe four or five years. How bad is that? It depends on your situation. Let’s start with the worst-case scenario. If you owed taxes for the years you haven’t filed, the IRS has not forgotten.

Where can I lodge my tax return for 2014?

There are three main options available to lodge any outstanding tax returns: You can lodge prior returns from 2014 onwards online and free of charge (though you’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria to lodge 2014 and 2015 returns online).