I just received a $25,000 IRS tax bill for not filing my 2018-2019 tax returns. What should I do?

I was going through a rough patch and ignored everything. Now, I have a $25k bill from the IRS for taxes I never even filed. I know it’s my fault, but Im freaking out.  What should I do?

What to Do If You Receive a $25,000 IRS Tax Bill for Unfiled Returns

Getting a big bill from the IRS — especially for years you never filed — can feel overwhelming. Here’s what you should do step-by-step to get back in compliance and possibly lower the amount you owe.

1. Confirm What the IRS Did

The IRS probably filed a Substitute for Return (SFR) on your behalf for 2018 and 2019. These returns often overstate your tax because they ignore deductions, credits, and your correct filing status.

• Pull your IRS transcripts online at irs.gov.

• Review your Wage & Income Transcript to see what information the IRS used.

💡 Pro Tip: If this feels too technical, call US TAX RELIEF at 1-844-4-IRS-FIX or visit www.TaxReliefProgram.org — we can pull and analyze your transcripts for you.

2. File Your Missing Returns

Even if the IRS filed for you, you can still submit your own original returns for those years. This usually lowers your tax bill significantly.

• Prepare correct 2018 & 2019 returns with the right filing status, deductions, and credits.

• Mail them to the IRS address listed on your notice.

📞 Need help preparing old returns or making sure you get credit for every deduction? Contact US TAX RELIEF — we specialize in back-tax return preparation and can do the entire process for you.

3. Request Penalty Relief

Most taxpayers in this situation owe failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties, plus interest. You may be eligible for First-Time Penalty Abatement if you were in good standing before 2018.

 US TAX RELIEF can prepare a penalty abatement request to potentially remove thousands of dollars in added charges.

4. Choose a Resolution Plan

Once your real balance is calculated, you have options:

• Full Payment: Stops interest and penalties right away.

• Monthly Installment Agreement: Pay in manageable monthly payments.

• Offer in Compromise: Settle your debt for less if you qualify.

• Currently Not Collectible: Pause IRS collections if you can’t afford payments right now.

💡 Call US TAX RELIEF to find the best resolution strategy for your exact situation — we have 20+ years of experience helping taxpayers solve IRS problems affordably.

5. Respond Before the Deadline

Never ignore an IRS notice. File your returns or contact the IRS by the due date on the letter. If you need time, request a short filing extension.

Bottom Line

A $25,000 IRS bill is scary — but it’s fixable. The most important step is to file the missing returns and correct the IRS’s numbers. Once you know your true balance, you can negotiate the best resolution.

📞 Call US TAX RELIEF today at 1-844-4-IRS-FIX or visit www.TaxReliefProgram.org to speak with a tax professional who can guide you through every step.

Similar Posts