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What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes by the April 15 Deadline

Indira Zaldivar
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What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes by the April 15 Deadline

April 15 can arrive sooner than expected, catching many taxpayers off guard. If you find yourself unable to pay your taxes by the deadline, don’t panic—you have options. Here’s what happens if you miss the tax deadline, immediate steps to take, and IRS solutions to help you stay on track.

Consequences of Missing the Tax Deadline

The IRS differentiates between failing to file and failing to pay:

  • Failure to File: If you don’t submit your tax return by April 15, the IRS imposes a failure-to-file penalty, typically 5% of your unpaid taxes per month, up to 25%.
  • Failure to Pay: If you file but don’t pay, a failure-to-pay penalty applies—0.5% of your unpaid taxes per month, also up to 25%. Interest accrues daily on top of these penalties.

For example, if you owe $5,000 and file six months late without paying, you could face:

  • $1,250 in failure-to-file penalties (5% x 6 months x $5,000)
  • $150 in failure-to-pay penalties (0.5% x 6 months x $5,000)
  • Additional interest on the balance

IRS Collection Actions

Ignoring your tax debt can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Tax liens on your property
  • Wage garnishments
  • Refund offsets, where future refunds are applied to your debt

Beware of IRS Scams: The IRS primarily communicates through mail. If you receive a call, email, or text claiming to be from the IRS, do not respond—it’s likely a scam.

Steps to Take if You Can’t Pay Your Taxes

1. File Your Tax Return on Time

Even if you can’t pay, filing your return prevents the costly failure-to-file penalty. If you need more time, request an extension through IRS Free File, which gives you until October 15 to file—but not to pay.

2. Pay What You Can

Even a partial payment reduces your balance, minimizing penalties and interest. You can pay online via bank transfer, debit, or credit card.

3. Consider a Payment Plan

The IRS offers several payment options:

  • Short-Term Plan (up to 180 days): Available if you owe less than $100,000. No setup fees.
  • Long-Term Installment Agreement: For balances under $50,000, allowing monthly payments over time.
  • Offer in Compromise (OIC): Settles tax debt for less than owed, but only for those proving financial hardship.
  • Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: Temporarily halts collection efforts if you can’t pay anything.

Special Circumstances

Some taxpayers may qualify for deadline extensions or penalty relief:

  • U.S. citizens living abroad receive an automatic two-month filing extension.
  • Military personnel in combat zones may qualify for additional time to file and pay.
  • Residents of federally declared disaster areas might be eligible for postponed deadlines.
  • First-Time Abate Relief may waive penalties if you have a history of timely filing and payment.

Don’t Forget State Taxes

State tax deadlines and penalties vary. Check with your state tax authority to avoid additional late fees.

Alternative Payment Solutions

If an IRS payment plan isn’t feasible, consider:

  • 0% APR credit card (if you can pay off the balance within the promotional period)
  • Personal loans (potentially lower interest rates than IRS penalties)
  • Home equity loans/HELOCs (lower interest rates but higher risk, as your home is collateral)
  • Retirement account loans (last resort due to penalties and lost investment growth)

When to Seek Professional Help

If you owe a significant balance, are facing wage garnishments, or feel overwhelmed, consider consulting:

  • Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) for tax preparation and payment strategies.
  • Tax Attorneys if facing legal issues or IRS collections.
  • Enrolled Agents (EAs) for assistance with back taxes and offers in compromise.

Beware of Tax Relief Scams: Some companies promise to erase tax debt but may charge excessive fees or be fraudulent. Always verify credentials and avoid large upfront fees.

Planning for Next Year

To avoid tax stress next year:

  • Adjust your withholdings using the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator.
  • Build a tax reserve by setting aside money each month in a high-yield savings account.
  • Stay organized by tracking deductible expenses and storing tax documents properly.
  • Set reminders for estimated tax payments and filing deadlines.

By taking proactive steps, you can navigate tax challenges more effectively and avoid costly penalties in the future. Keep up with more finance tips with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Springtime chill has arrived along with dry conditions

ABC13 Houston
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Springtime chill has arrived along with dry conditions

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — You can tell a cold front moved through by how chilly it is outside. Morning temperatures Monday will make it feel more like winter in Southeast Texas!

Clouds will slowly clear across the region with temperatures falling into the low-mid 40s by Monday morning. So don’t forget a jacket or wear a warmer sweater especially for the morning hours. Sunshine is the story though for Monday and much of this week. High temperatures will climb into the upper 60s Monday afternoon with a light breeze out of the north.

Any other springtime cold fronts like this last one on the horizon?

We are expecting another cold front to move through Southeast Texas later this week, but at this point it doesn’t look to be as strong in the case of both storms and the cold temperatures to follow. This front will more so reinforce the dry and sunny conditions and lower humidity heading into the weekend.

With the recent rain, how long will our pollen levels stay low?

The weekend rainfall should help out in the near-term by washing away much of heavy pollen. However, with another drier pattern into next week, you’ll probably start to see that light film of pollen return outdoors.

Any other rain chances coming up in the forecast?

Not really. This pattern flip that has brought in cooler and calmer weather will also keep us pretty dry too. Not much rain is expected, if at all, over the next 10 days.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with Que Onda Magazine.

Texas Reports Second Child Death from Measles Amid Growing Outbreak

Indira Zaldivar
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Texas Reports Second Child Death from Measles Amid Growing Outbreak

Texas health officials have confirmed a second child has died from measles as the state experiences its worst outbreak in 30 years. The child, a school-aged patient in Lubbock, was unvaccinated and had no underlying conditions, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Earlier this year, the measles outbreak claimed its first life. The first patient, who was hospitalized with the highly contagious virus, passed away overnight, marking the first fatality since the outbreak began in late January.

Rising Cases Nationwide

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 642 confirmed measles cases across 22 states, with Texas accounting for 499 of them. This marks a sharp increase compared to last year’s total of 285 cases nationwide. At the current rate, the U.S. may surpass the 2019 outbreak, which recorded 1,274 cases—the highest since 1992.

New Mexico, Kansas, and Ohio are also experiencing outbreaks, with New Mexico reporting its worst surge in 40 years.

PHOTO: Measles Outbreak
A measles sign is seen at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Feb. 25, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, file)
Julio Cortez/AP

Federal Response and Vaccine Advocacy

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Texas, offering condolences to the affected families and reiterating that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the disease. However, Kennedy, known for past vaccine skepticism, has faced criticism for not strongly advocating widespread vaccination.

Public health officials stress that measles outbreaks are preventable with vaccination. The MMR vaccine is 93% effective with one dose and 97% effective with two doses. The CDC recommends children receive the first dose between 12-15 months and the second between ages 4-6.

Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician, publicly urged top health officials to unequivocally promote vaccination, emphasizing that there is no treatment for measles and no benefit to contracting it.

Impact of Federal Health Cuts

Kennedy’s visit follows recent workforce reductions at the HHS and CDC, along with an $11 billion rollback in public health funding initially allocated for pandemic recovery. Local health officials warn these cuts could weaken responses to outbreaks like measles. Dr. Philip Huang, Dallas’s top health official, noted that funding cuts have impacted lab capacity and immunization efforts, particularly in smaller health departments.

Risk of Losing Measles Elimination Status

Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, meaning there was no continuous spread for over a year. However, if the Texas outbreak persists beyond 12 months, the country risks losing this status.

The CDC has redeployed teams to Texas at the request of Governor Greg Abbott to support vaccination efforts and outbreak containment. Health officials continue urging vaccinations to prevent further spread and potential loss of national measles elimination status.

Keep up with the measles outbreak and prevention efforts with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Trump’s Second Term: Declining Polling Trends, Executive Orders, and Economic Challenges

Que Onda Editorial
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Trump’s Second Term: Declining Polling Trends, Executive Orders, and Economic Challenges

Eleven weeks into his second administration, President Donald Trump continues to exert his influence at a breakneck pace. Since his inauguration on January 20, Trump has signed 111 executive orders—an unprecedented number compared to his predecessors.

“More than any in American history,” Trump proudly stated last week.

The president’s executive actions have significantly expanded the powers of the office, reshaping long-standing government policies and implementing major reductions in the federal workforce. While his administration touts these moves as necessary reforms, they have also sparked intense debate among policymakers and the public.

Public Opinion and Approval Ratings

Despite Trump’s assertive governance, national polls indicate a decline in his approval ratings. A Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted from March 31 to April 2 places his approval at 43%, with a disapproval rating of 53%. Similarly, a Wall Street Journal poll from March 27 to April 1 shows Trump slightly underwater, with 46% approving and 51% disapproving of his performance.

Conversely, a recent Daily Mail survey suggests a more favorable rating. However, the majority of national polls since mid-March reflect growing dissatisfaction.

At the beginning of his second term, Trump’s approval ratings hovered in the low 50s, while disapproval remained in the mid-40s. The current downward trend is largely attributed to increasing economic concerns, particularly inflation—an issue that also plagued former President Joe Biden’s tenure.

Economic Uncertainty and Market Reactions

One of the key contributors to the president’s slipping approval is anxiety over the economy. Trump’s recent announcement of new tariffs ignited tensions with major trading partners, triggering a significant financial market sell-off and raising fears of an impending recession.

Addressing concerns about market instability, Trump remarked, “Sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something.”

According to the Reuters/Ipsos poll, only 37% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, while 52% disapprove. The Wall Street Journal poll offers slightly better numbers—44% approval versus 52% disapproval—yet still indicates widespread concern.

Daron Shaw, a political analyst at the University of Texas and a Fox News Decision Team member, described the economy as “the 800-pound gorilla.” He noted that Trump faces increasing challenges in convincing the public that his economic policies, including tariffs, will ultimately benefit the country.

“He’s losing the narrative,” Shaw observed. “He’s got to make the case that tariffs are part of a larger economic plan that’s going to address the concerns people have.”

Immigration and Border Security: A Stronghold Issue

While Trump struggles with economic approval, his handling of immigration and border security remains one of his strongest points. Both the Reuters/Ipsos and Wall Street Journal polls indicate positive ratings in this area. Immigration was a key issue that propelled Trump back into the White House, and his policies have made significant impacts.

However, Shaw argues that Trump’s success in securing the border has paradoxically diminished its urgency as a political issue. “One of the problems of succeeding is that it’s something you no longer really talk about. It’s no longer at the top of people’s issue priorities,” he explained.

The Bigger Picture

Despite fluctuating approval ratings, Trump’s numbers remain stronger than those of his first term. Veteran Republican pollster Neil Newhouse pointed out that Trump’s support within his party is more solidified than it was during his initial presidency.

“Keep these numbers in perspective,” Newhouse advised. “The numbers he’s averaging right now are still higher than he was at any point during his first presidency. His Republican base is strongly behind him.”

As Trump continues to navigate his second term, the key question remains: Can he maintain public confidence while pushing forward with his aggressive policy agenda?

Keep up with Trump’s administration with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Cougars Stun Duke With Late Comeback, Advance to NCAA Championship

Edward Saenz
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Cougars Stun Duke With Late Comeback, Advance to NCAA Championship

First Title Game Appearance Since 1984

The University of Houston Cougars are heading to the NCAA Championship for the first time in 41 years, following a dramatic comeback win over Duke on Saturday night in San Antonio.

Down by 14, But Not Out

Duke led by 14 points with just over eight minutes remaining and appeared to be in control. But Houston refused to quit. Fueled by LJ Cryer’s clutch shooting, the Cougars scored 10 straight points, shifting the momentum and silencing a potential sixth title run for the Blue Devils.

Final 33 Seconds Seal It

In a wild final stretch, Houston scored the last nine points of the game, including two calm free throws from J’Wan Roberts to give UH a 68-67 lead with under 20 seconds left. Duke’s final attempts, including a desperation heave by Tyrese Proctor, fell short. The Cougars walked off with a 70-67 win.

Duke’s Collapse

Even AP National Player of the Year Cooper Flagg couldn’t save the Blue Devils, who suffered from missed shots, costly fouls, and a lack of defensive stops. “It’s heartbreaking,” Duke coach Jon Scheyer said after the loss.

Houston Fans and Mayor Celebrate

The Alamodome crowd roared as red-clad Cougar fans, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire, celebrated a victory decades in the making.

Next Up: Florida

The Cougars will face the Florida Gators in Monday night’s championship game — the first time these two programs will meet this season.

Keep up with the UH Coogs’ climb to the top with us on Que Onda Magazine.

‘SNL’ Takes Aim at Trump’s Tariffs, Tesla Troubles in Star-Studded Episode

Que Onda Editorial
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‘SNL’ Takes Aim at Trump’s Tariffs, Tesla Troubles in Star-Studded Episode

Cold Open Roasts Trump’s Economic Plan

Saturday Night Live kicked off its latest episode with a cold open mocking President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariff plan, which has caused turmoil in global markets. James Austin Johnson reprised his role as Trump, declaring tariffs to be his “favorite word” — short for “terrific idea.”

The fake Trump speech poked fun at the plan’s randomness, comparing it to the meaningless numbers from Severance, and joking that America would soon enter a “fantastic, unbelievable depression” — MAGDA, or Make America Great Depression Again.

Mike Myers Returns as Elon Musk

In a surprise twist, Mike Myers returned to SNL playing Elon Musk. His version of Musk introduced the fictional Tesla Model V, the “first fully self-vandalizing car,” featuring auto-smashing headlights and AI-generated graffiti.

“You can choose from penises, swastikas, or my favorite—swastikas made of penises,” Myers quipped, drawing big laughs.

Jack Black Brings Rock Energy to Studio 8H

Hosting for the fourth time, Jack Black brought his signature energy to the show. He joked mid-monologue that he was quitting due to stress—only to be revived by a classic School of Rock guitar riff. Fueled by the music, Black launched into an impromptu musical number, leaping through the audience as a live marching band backed him up.

Musical Guests Elton John and Brandi Carlile Shine

The night’s musical guests were legends in their own right—Elton John and Brandi Carlile, who both delivered powerful performances. It marked a standout musical pairing that added emotional depth to the high-energy episode.

A Tribute to Val Kilmer

At the show’s end, SNL paid tribute to actor Val Kilmer, who passed away from pneumonia at age 65 earlier in the week, with a heartfelt title card honoring his legacy.

Keep up with more entertainment news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Storms Leave 17 Dead Across the U.S.

Edward Saenz
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Deadly Storms Leave 17 Dead Across the U.S.

Tornadoes, Flash Flooding Devastate Multiple States

A multi-day severe weather outbreak has left at least 17 people dead and dozens more injured across 10 states from the Midwest to the South. Since Wednesday, more than 90 tornadoes have been reported, along with historic levels of rainfall that triggered catastrophic flooding in several areas.

Tragedy Strikes Across the Region

The storm’s victims include a 9-year-old boy in Kentucky swept away by floodwaters, and a 5-year-old child in Arkansas found dead in a flooded home. Tennessee has reported the highest death toll, with at least 10 lives lost—many in Selmer, where a powerful EF-3 tornado caused widespread destruction.

Missouri mourns the loss of two firefighters: 68-year-old Fire Chief Garry Moore died while helping a stranded driver, and 16-year-old Chevy Gall was killed in a crash while responding to an emergency.

States Under Emergency Alerts

Flash flood emergencies stretched across Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Indiana, and into parts of the Deep South. Memphis recorded more than 14 inches of rain, including its wettest April day ever with over 5 inches falling on Saturday alone.

More than 50 river gauges across the Mid-South are expected to reach major flood stage this week, with at least 18 already at dangerous levels.

Tornado Watches and Flood Warnings Continue

Tornado watches were in effect Sunday morning for Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia, including metro areas like Atlanta and Birmingham. The National Weather Service issued a “particularly dangerous situation” alert, warning of more tornadoes and damaging winds over 75 mph.

Outlook: More Rain, But Diminishing Storms

While the worst of the weather is expected to ease by Monday, regions already hit hard may still see up to six more inches of rain. The risk of flash flooding remains high in parts of Georgia, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle.

With rivers still rising and the ground saturated, emergency officials warn that recovery could take weeks. Communities continue cleanup efforts while bracing for possible aftershocks from this deadly weather system.

Keep up with the severe storm’s recovery and aftermath with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Francis Makes Surprise Appearance After Serious Illness

Indira Zaldivar
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Pope Francis Makes Surprise Appearance After Serious Illness

First Public Sighting Since Hospitalization

In a heartening moment for many faithful around the world, Pope Francis made an unannounced public appearance on Sunday, April 6, 2025, marking his first outing since being discharged from the hospital two weeks ago. The 88-year-old pontiff greeted worshippers at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, where he appeared in a wheelchair and used a nasal cannula to assist his breathing.

A Warm Welcome from the Crowd

Pope Francis is cheered at by faithful at the end of a mass in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, on April 6, 2025. Screenshot Courtesy: Andrew Medichini/AP

Crowds gathered for a mass dedicated to the sick were visibly moved when the smiling Pope was wheeled out. Applause and cheers erupted as Francis made his brief appearance, lifting spirits among the many pilgrims and followers present. Although his voice remained weak, he spoke more clearly than during his last public appearance and moved his arms with greater ease.

A Life-Threatening Illness

The Pope’s reappearance comes after a significant health scare earlier this year. On February 14, he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital with a severe respiratory infection, which later developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs. Doctors revealed that Francis faced two critical episodes during his 38-day hospital stay—moments in which his life was in grave danger.

Progress Toward Recovery

Pope Francis was discharged on March 23 and has since been recovering at Casa Santa Marta, his residence within the Vatican. His medical team indicated that a full recovery would require at least two months. Sunday’s brief public appearance suggests progress in his condition, though he is still in a delicate state.

A Quiet but Powerful Return

The Vatican reported that prior to his appearance, the Pope visited St. Peter’s Basilica to go to confession. He then made his way to the square to greet the pilgrims. While the event was not pre-announced, it sent a strong message of resilience and faith from the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church.

Keep up with Pope Francis’ recovery with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Tornado Watch Issued for SE Texas

ABC13 Houston
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Tornado Watch Issued for SE Texas

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A Tornado Watch has been issued for Harris County, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Galveston, Liberty, San Jacinto, Brazoria, Chambers, and Polk Counties through 9PM.

We are also declaring today an ABC13 Weather Alert Day for the possibility of severe weather. Areas especially along and east of the I-45 corridor have a chance for hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes. The greatest risk of severe storms will be northeast of Houston, but area-wide we should stay weather aware, especially in the afternoon as the cold front moves in.

The strong winds we’ve had around here the last few days will continue into Saturday. Those winds will gust above 30 mph at times.

What can you tell me about Saturday’s strong cold front?

The cold front will pass through our area Saturday afternoon. Our atmosphere will be unstable enough for strong to severe storms to occur with the front. Isolated tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail will be possible, especially along and east of the I-45 corridor. Once the front passes, most of the rain will end and temps will fall. We’re talking highs in the 60s Sunday and Monday. Lows will drop to the lower 50s and upper 40s Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Does this mean drought conditions will improve?

Likely improve, yes! Completely relieved? Not for everyone. The rain from this past week and what’s expected this week will be beneficial though for those with drought conditions.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard Headline Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Michael Esparza
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Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard Headline Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame later this year—both individually and as members of the 2008 U.S. Olympic “Redeem Team.” The Class of 2025 also includes LeBron James and Chris Paul as part of the Olympic team, marking a rare moment where active players are honored before retirement.

The Redeem Team’s Legacy
The 2008 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball team earned its “Redeem Team” nickname by reclaiming gold in Beijing after a disappointing bronze finish in 2004. Going undefeated with an average win margin of nearly 28 points, the team helped restore America’s dominance in international basketball. The roster featured legends like Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and Jason Kidd—now receiving Hall of Fame recognition a second time.

Dwight Howard reflects on his journey.

Anthony Reflects on the Moment
“When the call came in and I saw Springfield on the screen, I knew what time it was,” Carmelo Anthony said on the televised announcement.

“When you hear ‘You’re in,’ it’s a burden off your shoulders.” For both Anthony and Howard, the honor cements their status as two of the most impactful players of their generation.

WNBA Legends Join the Class
Sue Bird, Maya Moore, and Sylvia Fowles will also be inducted, further highlighting the impact of UConn’s powerhouse women’s program. “They’re hall of famers for everybody—even UConn haters,” legendary coach Geno Auriemma told AP News. Their achievements in the WNBA and on the international stage have made them icons in women’s sports.

Coaches, Executives, and Officials Recognized
Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan will be inducted for his back-to-back NCAA titles with the University of Florida. Miami Heat managing general partner Micky Arison, who oversaw three NBA titles, will be honored for his contributions to the game. Veteran NBA referee Danny Crawford, who officiated for 32 seasons and appeared in 23 NBA Finals, rounds out the group of influential off-court figures.

Enshrinement Weekend Details
The Hall of Fame induction events will take place September 5–6 at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and the Hall in Springfield, Massachusetts. USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley said the Redeem Team’s selection marks a “pivotal moment” in Olympic history that led to five consecutive gold medals.

A Celebration of Basketball Excellence
From Olympic champions to WNBA icons and coaching greats, the Class of 2025 represents a diverse and dynamic group whose influence continues to shape the sport. Whether on the court or behind the scenes, their legacies are now officially etched into basketball history.

Keep up with sports news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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