The IRS will start accepting tax submissions for the 2025 tax year starting from January 26 2026. The processing work has just started but the preparation activities began several months before. Filers now have the option to submit their forms through electronic methods or traditional mail without any waiting period. The system has been built to handle peak volume times because it requires multiple simultaneous user transactions. People who want to avoid problems that occur during the final period of work start their tasks before April.
The system sends confirmation notices after submission in different packages which depend on the chosen submission method. The system requires human supervision to maintain quality control even though it operates through automated processes. The system provides updates about refunds and audits and follow-ups through official channels only. The organization uses its existing policies to create stable systems, which helps people who already know the rules follow them.
When Does Filing Start and What are the Tax Filing Deadlines in 2026?
The IRS( Internal Revenue Service) will begin processing personal federal tax returns on January 26 2026. The official tax season begins on January 1, but tax returns submitted before January 26 will not be accepted. Almost all American taxpayers must complete their tax returns by the deadline of April 15 2026. The processing of applications will not start at midnight on New Year's Day despite the New Year changing the calendar.
Those mailing forms too soon might face delays instead of faster replies. Dates matter because systems need time to activate after holidays. Even if prepared early, electronic entries wait in queue until processing resumes. This timing helps prevent errors during high-volume periods. Tax rules stay consistent across these weeks, yet start dates change yearly. Filers benefit by waiting until operations officially restart.
If extra time is needed, a return extension may be requested; however, the full tax payment remains due by April 15 to avoid added fees. Missing that date triggers both penalties and interest accruals.
Taxpayers who reside outside the United States have specific deadline extension rules, but interest on their unpaid tax amount begins to accrue from April 15, except for taxpayers who meet certain qualifications.
A Record Number of Returns Expected in 2026
The IRS expects to get approximately 164 million individual tax returns during this filing season. Most of these returns will be filed electronically.
The system processes electronic filing faster than other methods because it decreases processing time and decreases the number of mistakes made. The use of direct deposit for refunds enables you to get your money faster.
Why This Filing Season Is Different
The 2026 filing season occurs after significant modifications to federal tax regulations. The alterations impact the tax deductions and tax credits and the tax forms that taxpayers need to complete. The main updates consist of:
- New deductions and credits created by recent tax law changes
- Updated instructions for how taxpayers report income and claims
- Additional information taxpayers must gather before filing
The IRS developed new systems that enable it to process these changes while assisting taxpayers in submitting correct tax returns.
Online Tools and Resources to Help You File
The IRS website provides tools which make the process of filing your federal tax return easier. The available resources that users can access include:
IRS Individual Online Account
Through an online IRS account users can:
- Users can check their balance status along with their past payment records
- Users can access their tax documents from previous years
- Users can verify their refund progress
- Users can view all communication documents which the IRS has sent to them
Your account enables you to monitor your tax details across different tax periods.
Free Filing Options
The IRS provides multiple free filing solutions through its various tools:
- Free File software allows eligible taxpayers to use the program based on their income and other requirements
- Free File Fillable Forms allows users to complete and submit online tax documents through their own filing skills
Users can select both options to complete their tax filing process without needing to purchase commercial software or hire tax preparers.
Volunteer Assistance Programs
Taxpayers who require return preparation assistance can receive help from:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) offers free help for people with low to moderate income
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) helps taxpayers aged 60 and older
- MilTax provides free assistance to military members and eligible veterans
The programs connect you to certified volunteers who assist you during the complete filing process.
Refunds and How They Are Issued by the IRS
Most taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit will have refunds issued within 21 days or less. Certain returns need additional evaluation which results in extended processing times.
The processing period for paper-based filing exceeds the duration needed for electronic submissions. Checking your refund? The IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool gives updates on timing. Meanwhile, the IRS2Go app also displays expected arrival dates. One works online; the other runs on mobile devices. Both show where things stand at any moment. No guesswork - just current details pulled directly from tax records. Updates appear automatically as processing moves forward. You might check one morning and see a deposit date by afternoon
Should mistakes occur, refunds might face delays since the IRS now sends payments only through direct deposit. To avoid issues, individuals must confirm their banking information is accurate when filing taxes.
Steps to Take Before Filing Your Taxes in 2026
Before sending tax forms, finish these actions first. Getting paperwork ready involves several tasks done ahead of time. Each part needs attention so nothing delays the process later. Check every detail carefully after organizing everything properly.
1. Gather Important Papers
Not preparing ahead often leads to setbacks. When uncertainty strikes, double-checking helps avoid gaps. Missing even a single record can disrupt progress later on
- Your employer is required to give you a Form W-2
- You need Form 1099 to report your contractor income and your investment income
- You need to provide documentation of all your taxable income
- You need to present any statements which show deductions or credits you intend to claim
- You should use your prior year's tax return as a reference document
Advance collection of these items enables you to complete your work without interruptions.
2. Check Your Withholding and Payments
You should examine your income tax withholding together with your estimated tax payments. If you expect a large refund or owe taxes, planning ahead may help you adjust withholding and reduce surprises.
3. Be Aware of New Tax Rules
The recent tax law changes will alter your deduction and credit eligibility. New forms or schedules may be required to claim these benefits, so understanding what’s new can make your filing smoother.
4. Choose the Right Filing Method
You can file your federal return in several ways.
- E-file with tax software: Fast and accurate
- You can choose to submit your documents through physical mail.
- Tax preparer or professional: Useful for complex situations
Each approach presents its unique advantages and disadvantages; however, e-filing with direct deposit tends to provide the quickest refund process for users.
How to Avoid Common Filing Mistakes in 2026
The following mistakes should be avoided because they lead to refund delays and they cause the IRS to issue notices. The following mistakes should be avoided:
- Entering incorrect Social Security numbers
- Forgetting to sign your return
- Leaving out required forms or schedules
- Using outdated information
- Reporting income inaccurately
You should examine your finished tax return before you send it to the tax authorities.
Protect Yourself from Scams
Tax season brings about scams which target taxpayers. The IRS will never initiate contact by text or email asking for personal tax information. Users should not provide confidential information to callers whose identity they cannot verify. If you detect something that appears suspicious you should reach out directly to the IRS.
The 2026 IRS filing season commenced on January 26, 2026 and will extend until April 15, 2026 for most taxpayers. This tax season will experience changes because of new tax regulations and the introduction of updated operational resources. Taxpayers who choose to file their taxes electronically and select direct deposit as their payment preference will receive their refunds more quickly. The process of preparing documents in advance while examining all materials before submission decreases both mistakes and tension.
Related Resources
- IRS Confirms 2026 Filing Season Start: What Taxpayers Should Know
- 2026 IRS Tax and Retirement Update: What Every Saver and Taxpayer Should Know
- IRS Confirms Supplemental Military Housing Tax-Free
The tax season becomes simpler when you understand available assistance whether you handle your taxes yourself through IRS resources or work with a tax expert like The Fino Partners. Access recent updates of the IRS with The Fino Partners and stay compliant in 2026 confidently.
