The IRS has made a crucial announcement for millions of taxpayers in the United States. The Internal Revenue Service has confirmed that the 2026 tax filing season will begin on Monday, January 26. Starting on this date, individuals will be able to file their tax returns based on their income for the 2025 tax year. This process will continue until April 15, 2026, which is the deadline for filing without penalty. Those who do not file by this date will either need to request an extension or face late filing penalties.
Notably, this year not only will the federal government begin accepting tax returns on this date, but the state of Oregon will also start accepting state tax returns on the same day, making the filing process easier for taxpayers.
The Real Advantage of Filing Early
Every year, millions of people file their returns on the first day of tax season, primarily because the biggest advantage is receiving their refund sooner. Those who file on or around January 26 are likely to receive their money by the first or second week of February, especially if they have opted for direct deposit.
Another significant benefit this year is that the average tax refund is expected to be $300 to $1,000 higher than last year. This is due to the new tax law, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This law was passed by the Republican-controlled Congress last year and signed into law by President Donald Trump in July.
Under this new law, several tax deductions and credits have been increased, leading to expectations of larger refunds for many. While government reports indicate that a significant portion of the benefits go to the wealthy, average middle-class taxpayers will also see some benefit.
How Many People Will File Taxes This Year?
According to IRS estimates, approximately 164 million people will file tax returns in 2026. This number highlights the vast population involved in the tax system. Most people now file their taxes online and through e-filing, making the process faster and easier than ever before. This year’s tax season is starting a day earlier than last year, giving people the opportunity to receive their refunds sooner.
New Tax Rules That Could Increase Your Refund
Several new tax rules have gone into effect this year that could impact your tax refund. The most significant is the increase in the standard deduction, which reduces your taxable income and lowers your tax liability. Additionally, there are tax breaks for overtime pay for certain workers, which is particularly beneficial for those who work extra hours.
If you understand these new rules and apply them correctly to your tax filing, your refund could be significantly larger than before.
Why an IRS Online Account Is Essential
The IRS Individual Online Account has become an incredibly useful tool for taxpayers. Through this account, you can view your outstanding balance, adjusted gross income, previous payments, and tax records. This not only simplifies tax filing but also allows you to correct any errors promptly.
If you haven’t created this account yet, it would be wise to do so before tax season begins.
Why Hiring a Tax Professional Is a Good Idea
If your income comes from multiple sources, or if you have business, investment, or rental income, tax filing can be quite complex. In such cases, seeking the help of an experienced tax professional can be beneficial. The IRS provides an official database where you can check if your tax preparer is properly registered.
Get Your Money Faster with Direct Deposit
The IRS no longer sends paper checks in most cases. Therefore, if you want your refund quickly and securely, you should opt for direct deposit. Simply provide your bank account information, and the money will be deposited directly into your account within a few days.
Free Tax Filing Options
Although the IRS has discontinued its free Direct File program, some private companies and state governments still offer free filing services. Oregon’s Direct File Oregon program is a good example of this, where thousands of people have filed their taxes for free.
How to Check Your Refund Status
Once you’ve filed your taxes, you can check your status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website. Updates usually appear within 24 hours of electronic filing, while mailed returns may take a few weeks.
Conclusion
The 2026 tax season could be more important and beneficial than ever. New tax breaks, an earlier filing start date, and the prospect of larger refunds make this year special. By preparing properly, having your documents ready in advance, and filing on time, your refund can arrive quickly and without any hassle.
FAQs
Q. When does the 2026 tax filing season start?
A. The IRS will begin accepting tax returns on January 26, 2026.
Q. What tax year are people filing for in 2026?
A. Taxpayers will be filing their income tax returns for the 2025 tax year.
Q. When is the last day to file taxes without penalty?
A. The deadline to file without penalties is April 15, 2026.
Q. Will tax refunds be higher in 2026?
A. Yes, many taxpayers are expected to receive refunds that are $300 to $1,000 higher than last year due to new tax rules.
Q. What is the fastest way to get a tax refund?
A. Direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to receive your tax refund.
