Raleigh, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Revenue launched a program Wednesday to help individuals catch up on unpaid taxes.

The Individual Income Debt Payment Program will waive certain penalties and fees and offer payment plan options to people who have unpaid taxes they need to resolve. Those who participate may avoid forced collections such as garnishments, liens and levies.

“This is exactly the type of program we need to help our fellow North Carolinians down the path to economic recovery,” Gov. Bev Perdue said in a statement. “We are making it easier for our citizens to work with state government.”

She said it's an important way to provide easy payment opportunities to taxpayers who have accrued debt over time.

The program ends April 30, 2012.

“We are excited to offer this payment program to our citizens,” said Secretary of Revenue David Hoyle. “It will help them resolve their tax liabilities easily and have a fresh start in 2012.”