IRS Opens 2026 Tax Filing Season
Date: January 26, 2026
For: Tax Year 2025
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially opened the 2026 tax filing season and is now accepting federal individual income tax returns for 2025.
The IRS expects about 164 million returns to be filed ahead of the April 15, 2026 federal deadline.
Message from IRS CEO
Frank J. Bisignano emphasized:
- 2026 marks America’s 250th anniversary and the 40th anniversary of e-filing (started in 1986).
- Taxpayers are encouraged to file electronically (e-file) and use direct deposit for faster refunds.
Electronic Filing Options
Fastest ways to file and receive refunds:
- IRS Free File: Brand-name tax software at no cost for eligible taxpayers.
- Free File Fillable Forms: For taxpayers comfortable preparing their own returns, regardless of income.
- Volunteer Programs:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
Offer free basic return preparation for qualified individuals.
Note: More than half of taxpayers still use tax professionals. The IRS advises reviewing tips to avoid unethical “ghost” return preparers.
Refunds
- Most refunds are issued within 21 days when direct deposit is used.
- Paper tax refund checks are being phased out per Executive Order 14247 (effective Sept. 30, 2025).
- Taxpayers can track refunds via:
- Where’s My Refund?
- IRS2Go app
- IRS Individual Online Account
Some returns may take longer if additional review is needed.
EITC and ACTC Refunds
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) refunds are expected in accounts by March 2, 2026, for eligible direct deposit filers.
- Projected deposit dates will be available on Where’s My Refund? by Feb. 21, 2026.
Additional Resources
For more information, filing tools, and tips to avoid errors that delay refunds, visit IRS.gov.
