What to Expect When Filing Taxes This Year
Important Information for Tax Season 2026
NCDOR has issued guidance on how recent federal law changes affect your 2025 NC income tax return.
Tax Season 2026 Timeline
Timeline
Opening and Processing:
- NCDOR began accepting 2025 Individual Income tax returns January 26, 2026.
- NCDOR began issuing 2025 Individual Income tax refunds on March 9, 2026. The latest information about refunds can be found on our refund page.
- NCDOR began accepting electronic 2025 Corporate Income and Franchise and Partnership Income tax returns on January 13, 2026 and Estates and Trusts Income tax returns on January 18, 2026.
Due Date: For calendar year taxpayers, the due date to file income tax returns is Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Refunds
The latest information about refunds can be found on our refund page.
Filing Information
eFile Your Return
NCDOR encourages taxpayers to use electronic filing rather than paper filing. eFiling ensures a faster refund and is the most secure way to file. Paper returns will not be processed earlier than electronic returns.
There are several options to eFile your return for free if you qualify. Or you may use approved third-party tax preparation software products to eFile.
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