Suppose I want use my state tax refund to pay my federal tax debt. Can I file state return now and file my federal return in April?
Yes. You can file your state and federal tax returns at any point before the filing deadline and use the refund money from the state refund to pay the tax liability on your federal return.
However, you might want to e-file both returns now. Then, submit your federal return with the e-file payment voucher by May 17, 2021. This will allow enough time for your state return refund to arrive to cover any federal balance due.
You must pay the balance due on your federal return by the filing deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
Related Resources
Learn more about the IRS Whistleblower Program, a newer initiative from the IRS that rewards people who provide valid information about tax scams.
If you have a tax balance that you can't pay right away, consider your payment options with us. Get tax answers at H&R Block.
If you did not have health care coverage, you may need to calculate your shared responsibility payment when filing your return. Learn more from H&R Block.
If you have paid penalties the IRS has charged you, you can use IRS Form 843 to request abatement and a refund. Learn more from the experts at H&R Block.