Tax Brackets and Changes - The IRS released the income tax brackets for 2026, which will affect tax returns filed in 2027 [1][2] - The tax brackets for single individuals and married couples have been adjusted for inflation, allowing Americans to earn more before being taxed at higher rates [2] - The standard deduction will increase to $16,100 for singles and $32,200 for married couples due to the GOP tax law [2] Tipped Wages - The IRS will implement no tax on tipped wages for the first $25,000 of income for 70 jobs in the private sector, primarily in the service industry [3] IRS Operations - A significant portion of IRS operations has been shut down due to an ongoing government shutdown, although tax revenue collection continues as an essential function [4] - Approximately 40,000 IRS employees are exempt from furloughs during the shutdown [4] Detailed Tax Brackets - The specific tax brackets for 2026 are as follows: - 10% for single incomes of $12,400 or less ($24,800 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 12% for single incomes over $12,400 ($24,800 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 22% for single incomes over $50,400 ($100,800 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 24% for single incomes over $105,700 ($211,400 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 32% for single incomes over $201,775 ($403,550 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 35% for single incomes over $256,225 ($512,450 for married couples filing jointly) [5] - 37% for single incomes greater than $640,600 ($768,700 for married couples filing jointly) [5]