01/08/2026
Key Dates for the 2026 Tax Season
January 9, 2026:
The IRS Free File program will begin accepting returns for qualified taxpayers who want to prepare their own taxes using guided software.
January 26, 2026: The official start of the 2026 tax filing season, when the IRS begins accepting and processing all individual paper and e-filed returns.
January 31, 2026: Deadline for employers to send out W-2 and most 1099 forms.
April 15, 2026: The deadline to file 2025 tax returns and pay any taxes owed.
October 15, 2026: The extended filing deadline for those who request an automatic extension using Form 4868 by the April 15 deadline. Note that an extension to file is not an extension to pay any taxes owed.
The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically and use direct deposit as it is the fastest and most secure way to receive a refund. Most taxpayers who file early can expect their refund within 10 to 21 days if they e-file and choose direct deposit.