“A tax refund is a bonus from the government.”

What the law says

It is your own money coming back. Nothing is awarded to you for filing.

Source: IRC §31 · IRC §6402 · IRC §6511 · Pub 17 · Instructions for Form 1040. Read the full rule, with the law quoted

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Not advice. Not a filing. Verify with a licensed professional. Rules change by year and facts.

More claims about the same rule

“If tax came out of your pay, it comes back to you even if you don't file.” · Not VALID
“Every tax credit can push you past zero tax.” · Not VALID

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