The 2026 tax season has officially begun. Millions of taxpayers are preparing to file their federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year. Paying taxes is important for many reasons. Taxes fund essential public services: roads, bridges, schools, public hospitals, firefighters, police, transportation, health programs, and social assistance.
And this year is no ordinary tax season: 2026 brings tax changes, updated tools, and strict deadlines that everyone should be aware of to avoid mistakes, penalties, and unpleasant surprises with the IRS.
The deadline to file most individual returns and pay any taxes owed is April 15, 2026. For those who need more time, the IRS offers extensions, but these do not extend the deadline to pay taxes, only the deadline to file the return.
Many of the changes affecting this tax season stem from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed in 2025. This reform has updated deductions, credits, and tax limits, directly impacting how much you pay or receive as a refund. Among the most significant changes are:
An increase in the standard deduction: This reduces taxable income for most taxpayers.
An additional deduction for those 65 and older: Older taxpayers can claim an extra amount to reduce their taxable income, which is beneficial for those who rely on retirement income.
The child tax credit and other benefits are adjusted for inflation, increasing the refund potential for families with dependents.
On the other hand, the IRS will no longer offer Direct File—a free government tool for filing taxes. Filing electronically with direct deposit remains the fastest way to receive a refund. The IRS indicates that many refunds will be issued in approximately 21 days. Having all your documents ready (W-2, 1099, information on deductions and credits) before filing speeds up the process and reduces errors. The IRS recommends using its online tools and reliable tax preparation software, as well as starting early to avoid unexpected setbacks.
In short, the 2026 tax season brings a reformed tax landscape, new savings opportunities, and the need to pay attention to detail. Getting organized, knowing the deadlines, and understanding how to apply the new provisions helps avoid pitfalls in fulfilling one of the most important obligations of citizens and residents in the United States.
