01/19/2026
The IRS will begin accepting Returns for Tax Year 2025 on Monday, January 26th, citing most refunds will be issued in less than 21 days.
However, Returns with Child Tax Credit(s) or Earned Income Credit are not expected to begin processing until mid-February, with the Refunds not being released until March 3rd, or after. You can file prior to that day, just know you likely will not receive your refund until after the anticipated release date.
With regards to some of the new Deductions for Tax Years 2025-2028, implemented by the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill", specifically dealing with Overtime and Tips, Employer(s) are NOT required to report your Overtime Hours/Wages separately for 2025, but they MAY report them in Box 14 of your W2, reflected as "FLSA OT Premium". If that coding is NOT present on your W2, you may need to calculate it yourself from your Paystubs. The Deduction is ONLY applicable for the extra 50% in time-and-a-half, not the base hours/wages themself, up to $12,500 (or $25,000 for joint filers). Qualified Tip earnings will still be reported in Box 7 of your W2.
As a reminder, I work/prepare filings out of the Law Firm I also work at in Lexington, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, and primarily after the normal Business Hours of the Firm. Daytime appointments may be worked in providing there's no conflict with the Firm's scheduled Closings. We can also arrange to a drop off of your information to me, where I'll work on the return in the pockets of my downtime, and then let you know once it's done.
Most of you already know how to reach me, but you can call, text, or email [email protected] to schedule your appointment. Any requests that come in in the duration of my Business Day will be responded to as quickly as I am able to get to them. Looking forward to the many hugs and giggles!! 😁