As Americans prepare for the 2026 tax season, key dates and recent tax law changes are shaping expectations for when returns can be filed and how much money many filers may get back.
The Internal Revenue Service has not formally announced the opening date for filing 2025 tax returns, but historically, the agency begins accepting returns during the final week of January. While taxpayers cannot submit returns before the season officially opens, preparation can begin earlier by gathering documents and reviewing filing requirements.
Employers are required to provide W-2 forms to employees by January 31, giving most workers the information needed to complete their returns shortly after tax season begins. The standard deadline to file federal income taxes remains April 15, which is also the last day to request a filing extension.
Beyond scheduling, many taxpayers may notice larger refunds in early 2026. Treasury officials have indicated that a significant number of Americans overpaid taxes during 2025, largely because withholding calculations did not account for newly enacted deductions.
Workers who earned tips or overtime are among those most likely to benefit. Recent tax changes allow qualifying individuals to deduct a portion of tipped income and overtime pay when filing returns. Since many employees did not adjust their withholdings during the year, taxes were often withheld at higher levels than ultimately required.
Additional deductions are also available to certain older adults and small business owners, while contribution limits have increased for some savings and benefit accounts. These provisions can further reduce taxable income when returns are filed.
Tax professionals caution that while refunds may be welcome, they often reflect money that could have been received earlier through adjusted withholding. Taxpayers who receive substantial refunds are encouraged to review their withholding elections for 2026 to better align take home pay with actual tax liability.
With filing season approaching, experts recommend preparing early, confirming eligibility for deductions, and ensuring documentation is accurate to avoid delays or errors once returns are submitted.
