Everything You Need to Know for the 2026 Tax Filing Season

Core Insights - The 2026 tax filing season begins next week, with new tax deductions and credits available through Schedule 1-A, including a no-tax-on-tips deduction and an additional deduction for seniors [1] Group 1: Key Dates - The IRS will start accepting and processing tax returns on January 26, with refunds issued within three weeks for online submissions [5] - Employers must distribute W-2 forms by February 2, with most Forms 1099 also due around this date [5] - The final deadline for taxpayers to file their 2025 tax return and pay any owed taxes is April 15, with extension requests due by the same date [5] Group 2: Filing Process - Taxpayers can currently submit their 2025 tax returns through the IRS Free File program, which is available for those with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less [3] - Taxpayers should ensure they have necessary tax forms, such as the 2025 W-2, before submitting their returns [3][4]