Will you go to jail for not filing taxes

[niyati]

I’ve heard people say that not filing taxes can land you in jail. Is that really true? What are the actual consequences for not filing taxes on time — especially if it’s by mistake or due to financial hardship? Also, how is it different from just not paying taxes owed?

 

[riya]

Failing to file taxes can lead to financial and civil penalties, interest, and, in extreme cases involving willful evasion or fraud, criminal charges. Under U.S. law, failure to file is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and fines, though jail time is rare without intentional wrongdoing.

 

[rajat]

You won’t automatically go to jail for not filing taxes, but willful tax evasion or fraud can lead to criminal charges and imprisonment. The IRS typically issues penalties and interest first, but repeated or intentional failure to file or pay taxes can result in serious legal consequences.