There are various time limits for getting a refund, for collecting on tax debts, and for auditing your tax returns. These have a direct impact on your plan of action for filing your late tax returns.

The IRS has three years to give you a refund. This is measured from the original filing deadline of a return. For example, you should file your 2002 tax return before April 15, 2006, if you want to receive a refund for your 2002 back taxes.

The IRS has three years to audit your tax return. The IRS also has ten years to collect any tax debts you owe. Both time periods are measured from the day you actually filed your tax return. We encourage you to file your tax returns as soon as possible, because this will start the clock ticking on these statutes of limitations.