I could've used the money for beer back in those days.

July 16, 2008 10:59 AM

Found an old W-2 from the chaotic grad school years (2000) that I never filed taxes on. Is it still possible? Looks like I'm owed money.

I used to work temp jobs from time to time, and apparently never filed for that year. I didn't work enough to have to pay taxes. Is there anything I can do to get my withheld back?

posted by Any Moose In a Storm to Work & Money (5 answers total)

If I recall correctly, after three tax years you forfeit your refund. I'll see if I can dig up the appropriate documentation on the IRS website.
posted by Weebot at 11:08 AM on July 16, 2008

It's "stat," meaning you lost your chance to get money. Weebot has it right.
posted by Dee Xtrovert at 11:19 AM on July 16, 2008

Alright, here it is:

Generally, you must file a claim for a credit or refund within 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. If you do not file a claim within this period, you may no longer be entitled to a credit or a refund . . . . Nonfilers can get refund of overpayments paid within 3-year period.

posted by Weebot at 11:25 AM on July 16, 2008

Sorry, you're out of luck. You have three years from the original deadline of the tax return (or two years from the time the tax was paid, whichever is later) to claim a tax refund (Title 26 § 6511 (a)).
posted by RichardP at 11:26 AM on July 16, 2008

Did you file a return at all? If you filed a return and just left one w2 off, you can amend it.
posted by CwgrlUp at 3:32 PM on July 16, 2008