The 2026 tax filing season is officially underway, and the IRS has released important updates, deadlines, and tips to help taxpayers prepare efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.
📅 Key Dates for 2026 Tax SeasonThe IRS has announced that the 2026 filing season begins on January 26, 2026, when it will start accepting and processing individual federal tax returns for the 2025 tax year. The deadline to file and pay any tax owed remains April 15, 2026 for most taxpayers.
🧾 New Tax Law Changes That Could Affect Your ReturnSeveral provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (passed in 2025) take effect this filing season. These updates can influence your refund or tax liability, including:

• Changes to how tips and overtime pay are taxed, potentially reducing taxable income for eligible workers.
• Adjustments to deductions and credits — including enhancements for seniors and families — that may reshape standard deductions and eligibility thresholds.

Because tax law changes can be complex, working with a licensed CPA or Enrolled Agent ensures you get the full benefit of these updates on your return.
🧠 Prepare in Advance to Avoid DelaysThe IRS is strongly encouraging taxpayers to set up or log in to their IRS Individual Online Account ahead of filing season. This secure tool gives access to prior-year tax records, W-2s, payment histories, refund status, and more — which can save time and reduce errors when preparing your return.
🚫 IRS Direct File Has Been DiscontinuedThe IRS has ended its Direct File program for 2026. This pilot service previously allowed eligible taxpayers to file federal returns directly with the IRS for free. However, other IRS-supported options — like Free File through trusted software providers or Free Fillable Forms — are still available.
🚨 Watch Out for Common Filing ErrorsThe IRS is also flagging common e-file errors that can delay refunds. Mistakes like incorrect Social Security numbers, mismatched dependent information, and simple math errors remain leading causes of return rejection or review delays. Filing electronically and double-checking all entries can help avoid these issues.
🧑‍💼 Why Professional Help MattersWith changing tax laws and filing requirements, preparing your taxes with a licensed CPA or Enrolled Agent can offer peace of mind — ensuring your return is complete, accurate, and optimized for your situation. These professionals are credentialed, trained, and authorized to represent you before the IRS if questions arise.

As we approach the 2026 tax year, major updates to the U.S. tax code are set to affect millions of taxpayers — from wage earners and families to retirees and business owners. These changes are the result of annual IRS adjustments and significant legislative reform, especially the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed in 2025. Below, we break down what’s new, what stays the same, and how you can plan ahead before the tax filing season begins. irs.gov+1

1. Inflation Adjustments: New Brackets & DeductionsEvery year, the IRS updates tax figures for inflation. For tax year 2026 (returns filed in 2027), several important thresholds will shift:

• Federal income tax brackets have increased to reflect inflation, helping prevent “bracket creep.” Kiplinger
• Standard deduction amounts are higher, giving taxpayers a larger baseline deduction whether they itemize or not. irs.gov
• Other limits — like earned income credit and retirement contribution thresholds — are also adjusted upward. Ramsey Solutions

These routine inflation edits help ensure you don’t pay more tax simply because wages and prices have risen. Ramsey Solutions

2. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)The sweeping tax law signed in 2025 — commonly called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — makes major changes for 2026 and beyond:
✔ Permanent Tax Cuts from the 2017 TCJAThe law largely extends many of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) benefits that were set to expire after 2025, so taxpayers won’t see a “tax cliff” next year. That includes keeping standard deduction levels elevated and maintaining lower tax rate thresholds. TurboTax
✔ New and Expanded DeductionsSome highlights include:

• Temporary senior deduction — up to $6,000 for qualifying taxpayers age 65 and older (expires 2028). Wikipedia
• New rules around overtime pay deductions for some workers (up to certain limits). Investopedia

✔ Changing Credits & Refund DynamicsGovernment officials have forecast that many Americans could see larger refunds when they file their 2025 taxes in early 2026, largely due to new withholding changes and tax adjustments. New York Post

3. How Charitable Giving & Itemized Deductions Are ShiftingStarting in 2026:

• The rules governing charitable deductions may tighten, meaning some gifts may be less deductible than before. Kiplinger
• This makes year-end giving strategies — like donor-advised funds and qualified charitable distributions — more important for reducing taxable income. Kiplinger

4. Industry-Specific Changes: Gambling & OvertimeA few notable changes include:

• Limits on gambling loss deductions — losses will only be deductible up to 90% of winnings, which can create “phantom income” for some taxpayers. Kiplinger
• Overtime deductions — workers with substantial overtime pay may be able to deduct the overtime premium portion of earnings under new rules. Investopedia

These rules reflect how broad the 2026 changes are — reaching beyond just brackets and credits into specific income categories.

5. What This Means for Your PlanningWith so many changes taking effect, now is the time to:

• Review withholding — to avoid surprises or maximize refunds.
• Consider year-end moves — like accelerating deductions into 2025 where advantageous. Kiplinger
• Talk with a tax professional — to tailor strategies for your situation.

Whether you’re a wage-earner, retiree, self-employed professional, or business owner, understanding the 2026 tax landscape can make a meaningful difference in your tax bill — and your financial goals.

Arizona offers some of the most generous state credits in the country — and many taxpayers miss them each year. Here are a few to double-check:
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1. Charitable Contribution Credits: Donations to qualified charitable organizations, foster care charities, or school tuition organizations may qualify for a dollar-for-dollar tax credit.
You can even donate up until April 15, 2025, and apply it to your 2024 return.

2. Private School Tuition Credit: Parents or donors who help fund private school scholarships can claim significant credits.
For 2024, these limits have increased slightly — couples filing jointly can claim over $2,400 in total credits.
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3. Solar Energy Credit: If you installed solar energy systems in your home, you may qualify for both federal and Arizona energy credits, reducing your overall tax bill.

Welcome to Tax Season 2025: What You Need to Know as Filing Begins

As the calendar flips to the new year, January 25, 2025, marks the official beginning of the tax filing season. For individuals, businesses, and tax professionals alike, this period is a critical time for organizing finances, navigating new regulations, and ensuring compliance with federal and state requirements. Here's what you need to know to get started on the right foot.

Key Dates for Tax Season 2025

• January 27, 2025: The IRS begins accepting and processing 2024 tax returns.
• March 15, 2025: The deadline for filing business tax returns and requesting an extension.
• April 15, 2025: The deadline for filing individual tax returns and requesting an extension.
• October 15, 2025: The deadline for filing extended tax returns.

Mark these dates on your calendar to avoid late penalties or missed opportunities to claim refunds and credits.
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Tax laws can change annually, and 2025 is no exception. Key updates include:

1. Standard Deduction Increases:
   • Single filers: $14,600
   • Married filing jointly: $29,200
   • Head of household: $21,200
2. Expanded Tax Credits:
   • The Child Tax Credit has been adjusted for inflation, increasing the maximum credit amount.
   • The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) also sees higher thresholds for eligibility.
3. New Electronic Filing Options:
   • Expanded payment options for those who owe taxes.

Steps to Prepare for Tax Season

1. Gather Your Documents: Ensure you have W-2s, 1099s, investment income statements, and receipts for deductible expenses on hand.
2. Organize Early: Filing early can expedite your refund and give you time to address any issues that arise, such as missing documents or errors in reporting.

Avoid Common Filing Mistakes

• Report All Income: Overlooked income from side gigs or freelance work can result in penalties.
• Use Correct Filing Status: Choosing the wrong status can impact your tax liability. Consult a tax expert for your best option.

Take Advantage of Tax Resources​

• Professional Tax Preparers: A trusted CPA or enrolled agent can help you navigate complex returns and maximize deductions.

The Importance of Early  

• Faster Refunds: Refunds typically arrive more quickly when filing early.
• Reduced Stress: Completing your return well before the deadline allows you to address any unexpected challenges calmly.
• Fraud Prevention: Filing early reduces the risk of identity theft by ensuring your return is processed before scammers have a chance to file fraudulently in your name.

Final Thoughts
Tax season doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right tax preparer, you can maximize deductions and minimize mistakes. Whether you’re anticipating a refund or preparing to settle your balance, January 25, 2025, is your starting line—so let’s get to it!