For taxpayers who need more time to file their tax return, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows you to request a automatic extension , which grants until October 15, 2025 to submit the declaration corresponding to fiscal year 2024.
However, an extension only postpones the filing date, not the payment date If you have outstanding taxes, you must pay them before April 15th 2025 to avoid fines and interest.
Who must file taxes?
In the United States, every person who works and earns income is required to file a federal tax return, regardless of immigration status.
This includes people with Social Security Number (SSN) and those who file taxes with a Personal Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) .
The obligation to file taxes applies to:
- Salaried workers , whose employers withhold taxes from their paychecks and report them to the IRS.
- Self-employed workers and business owners , who must calculate and pay estimated taxes during the year.
- People who receive income from rentals, investments or other additional sources .
- People who qualify for tax credits or refunds , who may benefit from filing even if their income is low.
Each year, the IRS sets a deadline for filing your return. For tax year 2024, the deadline is April 15th 2025 .
If you cannot submit it on time, you can request a automatic extension to have up to the 15th October 2025 .
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What is a tax extension?
An tax extension is an IRS permit that grants six additional months to file federal tax returns.
It is automatically granted if submitted correctly, without the need to explain the reason.
The extension applies to federal income tax , which is the tax that people and companies must pay on their income.
While the extension covers federal filing, some states, such as North Carolina, require a separate application for State taxes .
How to apply for a tax extension?
There are several ways to request a free extension for federal taxes:
- Online with the IRS: Presents the Form 4868 through IRS Free File , available at irs.gov.
- Tax Software: Most tax preparation programs allow you to file the extension electronically.
- With a tax professional: An accountant or tax preparer can handle the application.
- By post: Sends the Form 4868 to the IRS before the April 15th 2025 . Make sure you get proof of shipping.
- Paying estimated taxes: If you make an electronic payment through IRS Direct Pay , you can indicate that the payment is part of an extension request, eliminating the need to submit the form.
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If I file for an extension, do I still have to pay my taxes?
Yes. Although the extension gives you more time to file your return, does not extend the deadline to pay your taxes If you owe money to the IRS, payment is still due on April 15th 2025 . Any amount not paid before that date may generate fines and interest .
To avoid penalties, the IRS recommends making an estimate and paying at least the 90% of the total owed when requesting the extension. You can make this payment through IRS Direct Pay , the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or by sending a check along with the Form 4868 .
When is the deadline in North Carolina?
En North Carolina, all individuals and businesses affected by the Tropical Storm Helene They have until May 1, 2025 to file your tax return and pay without penalties or interest.
This IRS relief grants 15 additional days after the normal period of April 15th 2025 Although it is a short extension, it may help those who faced difficulties due to the storm.
It is important not to wait until the last minute. If you think you will not be able to file your return before the deadline, May 1th , you must request an extension before that date. This will give you time until the 15th October 2025 , but remember that the extension only postpones the filing date, not the payment date.
The relief automatically applies to everyone in North Carolina. If you have questions or need to confirm your status, you can call 866-562-5227 or visit irs.gov .
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Does the federal extension also cover state taxes in North Carolina?
It depends. If you filed for an extension on your federal return, North Carolina will give you an automatic extension to file your state return, but You must indicate this in your declaration when you submit it. .
If you did not request the federal extension, then yes you must request state extension separately, filling the Form D-410 by April 15, 2025. This will give you until October 15, 2025 to file your state return.
The extension only gives you more time to file the return, but not to pay If you owe state taxes, you must pay them by April 15, 2025, to avoid penalties and interest.
Options for requesting an extension in North Carolina:
- If you already filed for a federal extension: You don't need to do anything extra, just make sure to mark it on your state return.
- If you did not request a federal extension: You must complete Form D-410 and submit it by April 15.
Resources to understand and comply with tax filing
If you need more information about filing your taxes or requesting an extension, these official government resources can help:
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Federal Taxes
- Form 4868 : To request a automatic extension and get more time to file your federal tax return. Available in IRS – Form 4868.
- IRS Free File : Free program to prepare and file your federal tax return online if you meet certain requirements. Learn more at IRS Free File.
- IRS Direct Pay : Platform to pay federal taxes online safely directly from your bank account. Access at IRS Direct Pay.
- Free Aid Programs (VITA and TCE) : Free assistance for low-income individuals, seniors, and those who need help filing their tax return. More details at Free IRS Programs.
- IRS Step-by-Step Guide : Clear and detailed information on how to file taxes in the US. Check at How to file your taxes.



