If you haven’t filed your 2008 personal income tax return and have a refund, you will lose that money if you don’t file by April 15, 2012.
The IRS will only pay back refunds up to 3 tax years. On April 15, 2012, the 2008 tax year will expire and the government will keep your money! Little known fact: though the IRS will only allow refunds 3 years back, they can go back at least 10 years to collect owed taxes.
So get that 2008 tax return in before April 15, 2012 if you were owed any money and haven’t filed your 2008 tax return.
Like any good CPA, I need to add a disclaimer: Unfortunately, it is impossible to offer comprehensive tax info over the internet, no matter how well researched or written. And remember, I love my readers but having me bookmarked on your computer doesn’t make you a client: before relying on any information given on this site, contact a tax professional to discuss your particular situation.