| The IRS may be looking for you—not because you owe money, but because the IRS may owe you. Each year, the post office is unable to deliver tens of thousands of refund checks, so they are returned to sender, the IRS. It could happen for a variety of reasons. The person changed addresses, married and changed their last name, or died, and no one told the IRS. Or it could simply be a typo on the address of the tax return. The IRS holds the money until the rightful person claims it. Does any of it belong to you? Check to see if your name is on the IRS list. When you obtain your search results, and if you are on the list, you can call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1954 or 1-800-829-4477 to find out how to receive your refund. It can be difficult to get through, so be patient. IRS.gov: Need an extension on your taxes or last minute tips? IRS.gov: Where’s my refund? |