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Need tax help? Get fast tax assistance at Jackson Hewitt. Find a location today.
Can you go to jail for not filing taxes?
Technically, you can go to jail for not filing taxes, but it’s rare. In most cases, the IRS prefers to encourage compliance through penalties and interest rather than criminal charges.
The IRS typically reserves criminal prosecution for taxpayers who intentionally refuse to file or evade their taxes. It’s not a crime if you owe tax and simply can’t afford to pay. The IRS may even be able to work with you to set up a payment plan or settle for less than you owe.
While you probably won’t go to jail for not filing, IRS penalties and interest can really add up, cause stress, and impact your financial future. Your best course of action is to file your return ASAP, even if you can’t pay. Your local Jackson Hewitt Tax Pro can help. Find tax services near you, then walk in or book now.
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Published on: October 22, 2026
*This content is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be comprehensive and should not be construed as professional tax or financial advice for any specific individual tax situation. Taxpayers should always consult a qualified professional for individual guidance. This information constitutes a solicitation under the Treasury Department's Circular 230. Most offices are independently owned and operated.
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Limited-time offer. Available 1/5/26 - 4/4/26. Valid for new clients (did not file a 2024 tax return with Jackson Hewitt) at participating locations. For 2025 federal tax returns only. Not available for certain complex federal returns, including those claiming dependents, investment income, or marketplace health insurance. Additional fees apply for state & local tax returns, financial products & other services. Cannot be combined with any other promo or discount. Offer may be modified or discontinued at any time. Not available for Jackson Hewitt Online.
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The Money Today Guarantee is only available to clients who (i) are approved for an Early Tax Refund Advance loan; and (ii) elect and are eligible to receive loan funds on a prepaid card. Loan available during hours of operation. Hours vary by location. Loan application must be submitted by 11pm local time. If funds are not credited to your card before 12am local time, Jackson Hewitt will credit $50 within 2 weeks to your card if available or provide you a $50 eGift card. Fees, terms, and conditions apply to the prepaid card. The Early Tax Refund Advance (ETRA) is a loan secured by, and paid back with, your tax refund and is offered by First Century Bank, N.A. Loan amounts are determined by your expected federal refund, less authorized fees and underwriting. Loan amounts are $300, $500, $1,000, and $1,500. To be eligible for the $1,500 ETRA loan, your expected federal refund, less authorized fees, must be at least $5,000. Most common ETRA loan amount approved is $300. ETRA loan is subject to underwriting and approval. Loan proceeds are typically available on the same day of approval, if disbursed on a prepaid card offered at Jackson Hewitt offices, or in 1-5 business days with direct deposit. Terms and restrictions apply. For details visit jacksonhewitt.com/loans. Jackson Hewitt is a Rhode Island Licensed Loan Broker and holds other relevant licenses for the locations where this product is offered. If approved, a finance charge applies except for residents of CT and NE.