Thousands of Michigan residents could be leaving money on the table without even knowing it. If you didn’t file a tax return for the 2021 tax year, you may still be eligible to claim a federal refund — but time is running out.
The final deadline to submit your return is April 15, 2025. After that, any unclaimed refunds will be lost for good.
Why Are 2021 Tax Refunds Still Unclaimed?
Each year, many people fail to file their tax returns due to low income, misunderstanding eligibility, or simply forgetting.
But if federal taxes were withheld from your paycheck in 2021 or you qualified for refundable credits, you could be due a refund — even if you weren’t required to file a return.
The IRS allows a three-year window to claim tax refunds. That means April 15, 2025, is the last day to file for your 2021 refund.
Who Might Be Owed a 2021 Refund?
You may be owed money if:
- You had taxes withheld in 2021 but didn’t file a return.
- You were eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
- You missed out on the third Economic Impact Payment (stimulus check) and are eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- You didn’t earn enough to be required to file, but still had qualifying refundable credits.
Michigan Tax Refund Snapshot
Here’s a quick look at how many people in Michigan may have money waiting and what the median refund could be:
| State | Unfiled Returns (2021) | Median Refund Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 35,000+ | $924 |
That’s a potential multi-million dollar payout going unclaimed — just in Michigan.
How to Claim Your 2021 Refund Before the Deadline
If you believe you may be eligible, here are the steps to claim your money:
1. Get Your 2021 Tax Documents
Collect your W-2s, 1099s, or other income statements from 2021. If you’re missing them, you can request duplicates from your employer or financial institution.
2. Download and Complete Form 1040
You must use the 2021 version of Form 1040. This must be filed on paper, as e-filing for past years is no longer available.
3. Mail It Before April 15, 2025
Make sure the return is postmarked by April 15, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted for refunds.
4. File Other Returns If Needed
If you haven’t filed your 2022 or 2023 returns, your 2021 refund may be held until those are submitted.
Don’t Forget These Refund-Boosting Credits
Be sure to check if you qualify for:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Worth up to $6,728 for eligible families in 2021.
- Recovery Rebate Credit: If you didn’t receive the full third stimulus payment.
- Child Tax Credit (CTC): May increase your refund if you had qualifying children.
With thousands of Michiganders eligible for unclaimed 2021 tax refunds, there’s no time to waste. If you skipped filing a return that year, you could be missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The deadline is firm — April 15, 2025. Take a few minutes now to gather your paperwork, fill out your return, and claim what’s rightfully yours before it’s too late.
FAQs
What happens if I miss the April 15, 2025 deadline?
If you don’t file by that date, your 2021 refund is permanently forfeited and cannot be claimed later.
Can I still file even if I had little or no income in 2021?
Yes! You may still qualify for refundable credits and a refund, even if you weren’t required to file.
What if I’m missing documents from 2021?
You can request income transcripts or wage statements through your IRS account, or contact your employer directly.