An opportunity to get up to $810? See if you qualify before it’s gone

Attention, fellow Americans! A treasure trove of unclaimed cash is up for grabs, and you might be entitled to a slice of this $94 million pie.

But time is ticking, and if you don't act swiftly, you could miss out on a “permanent” payment of up to $810.

Here at The GrayVine, we're committed to guiding you through the exact steps to claim what's rightfully yours before the opportunity vanishes.



The IRS has sounded the alarm: over 1.1 million people across the United States have yet to claim their refunds for the 2021 tax year.

If these funds remain unclaimed, they'll be absorbed by the US Treasury, and that's the last thing we want to see happen to your hard-earned money.

A staggering $94 million awaits Texas taxpayers alone, but don't worry if you're from another state.

Each state has a designated pot based on the number of eligible claimants.


Screenshot 2025-04-08 at 14.17.31.png
The IRS is urging over 1.1 million Americans to claim their unclaimed refunds for the 2021 tax year, with a total pot worth $94 million available for Texas taxpayers alone. Image source: CNBC / Youtube.



The clock is ticking, though, as the 2025 tax season is nearing its end, and the filing deadline is on April 15.

How to Stake Your Claim
Navigating the IRS maze can be daunting, but we've broken it down into manageable steps to help you secure your refund:

1. Create an IRS Account: The most efficient way to file your tax return is by creating an individual account online with the IRS.

2. Free File Assistance: If you're in need of financial help, the IRS offers a Free File program. This public-private partnership between the IRS and tax preparation companies allows eligible taxpayers to prepare and file their federal income tax online at no cost.



3. Avoid Common Mistakes: When filing, ensure all personal details are accurate. A simple typo in your Social Security number, name, or birthday could lead to unnecessary delays.

State-by-State Refund Estimates
Curious about how much you might be owed? Here's a snapshot of the potential refunds for taxpayers filing their 2021 tax return, broken down by state:
  • Alabama: Median potential refund of $743
  • California: Median potential refund of $600
  • New York: Median potential refund of $995
For a complete list, you can check it out here.


Screenshot 2025-04-08 at 14.18.28.png
Taxpayers are advised to act quickly as the filing deadline for the 2025 tax season is fast approaching. Image source: CNBC / Youtube.



Tax season kicked off on January 27, and the finish line is April 15. Missing this deadline could result in penalties, but if you need more time, you can file for an extension, which grants you until October 15.

To do this, submit Form 4868 either by mail, online, or through a tax professional.

If you file electronically, the IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days. For those sending paper returns, expect to wait up to a month, possibly longer due to processing times.

As of January 31, the average refund was $1,928, a notable increase from the previous year.



To keep tabs on your refund, use the IRS's “Where's My Refund?” online tool, which is available within 24 hours of e-filing and about four weeks after mailing your return.


Source: CBS News / Youtube.​


We encourage you to share this information with friends and family, so no one misses out on their rightful refund.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS is urging over 1.1 million Americans to claim their unclaimed refunds for the 2021 tax year, with a total pot worth $94 million available for Texas taxpayers alone.
  • Taxpayers are advised to act quickly as the filing deadline for the 2025 tax season is fast approaching.
  • Options for free tax filing assistance are available through the IRS's Free File program, which provides federal income tax preparation and filing services at no cost.
  • It's essential for filers to avoid errors such as incorrect personal details on their tax return forms to prevent delays, with the IRS typically issuing refunds within 21 days of e-filing.

Have you claimed your refund yet? Know someone who might be missing out? Got any tips or success stories to help others through the process? Drop it in the comments below!

 
Last edited:

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

The GrayVine

The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & Fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's America
  5. Money Saving Hacks
  6. Offtopic / Everything else
  7. News & Politics
Share With a Friend
Change Weather Zip code ×
Change Petrol Postcode×