02 Aug My adult kids aren’t filing their taxes. What can I do?

Q. My young adult children both filed for extension for income tax. They use my accountant. I’m annoyed that they still haven’t given the accountant the info they need. It’s not like it’s complicated. They are both single with W2 income. Is there anything I can do?
— Frustrated beyond belief

A. It’s never easy when you think a family member isn’t doing the right thing when it comes to finances or taxes.

It can get ugly.

There probably is something you can do, but the question is whether it will make things better, said Bill Connington of Connington Wealth Management in Butler.

“Since they’re young adults, this is one of those responsibilities that must become theirs,” he said. “If you take ownership of it, you may get this year’s return filed, but you also reinforce the idea that someone else will keep track of tax deadlines for them.”

It is understandable to be annoyed, he said, especially because you have a relationship with the accountant. But ultimately, it is your children’s tax return, not yours.

“If they miss the deadline, incur penalties or interest it is on them and not you,” he said. “Sometimes experiencing that once is often a more effective teacher.”

Connington said if he was in your shoes, he would send one final text:

“Just a reminder that your accountant is still waiting for your tax information. Please send everything directly to them.”

“Then I’d stop following up,” he said. “That communicates the expectation clearly while leaving responsibility where it belongs.”

Good luck!

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This story was originally published in August 2026. 

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