Don't Leave Cash Behind: The April 15 Deadline for 2022 Tax Refunds

The IRS estimates that roughly $1.5 billion is left on the table each year by taxpayers who fail to file past returns. At Lizza & Carullo CPAs & Advisors, we emphasize proactive tax planning to ensure our clients never miss out on capital. If you have an unfiled 2022 tax return and are owed a refund, your strict deadline to claim those funds is April 15, 2026. After that date, the money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury.

Time is ticking on claiming past tax refunds

What You Stand to Lose

Beyond recovering withheld taxes or estimated payments, failing to file means forfeiting valuable tax credits. Qualifying taxpayers might lose access to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable credit for those below specific income thresholds, alongside the refundable portions of child and education credits. From a cash flow perspective, leaving this money unclaimed is a missed opportunity.

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Partner with Lizza & Carullo CPAs & Advisors for ongoing guidance, proactive tax planning, and strategic financial support. Whether you’re growing a business or navigating personal taxes, our year-round advisory approach helps you stay organized, tax-efficient, and in control — with a team that’s here when you need us, not just at tax time.
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The Logistics of Late Filing

Unlike current-year filings, a late 2022 return cannot be e-filed. It must be prepared on paper, correctly addressed, and postmarked by April 15, 2026. Because a standard mailbox pickup might miss the deadline, we recommend taking your return directly to the post office to be officially stamped. Fortunately, there is no penalty for filing a late return if you are owed a refund.

Requirements and Offsets

The IRS will hold your 2022 refund if you have unfiled returns for 2020 or 2021. Any approved refund will also first be applied to outstanding federal debts, unpaid child support, or defaulted student loans.

If you need to file a past-due 2022 return, contact our East Rutherford, NJ office soon. We need time to prepare the paperwork, review your broader tax strategy, and ensure you secure proof of mailing before the window closes.

Gain Year-Round Financial Clarity and Confidence
Partner with Lizza & Carullo CPAs & Advisors for ongoing guidance, proactive tax planning, and strategic financial support. Whether you’re growing a business or navigating personal taxes, our year-round advisory approach helps you stay organized, tax-efficient, and in control — with a team that’s here when you need us, not just at tax time.
Schedule Your Discovery Call
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