As the 2026 tax season begins, the IRS has announced several important updates that impact filing, deductions, credits, refunds, and planning strategies. Understanding these changes early can help you prepare your return accurately and avoid surprises.
🔹 IRS Opens 2026 Filing Season
- The IRS began the 2026 filing season on January 26, 2026, when it started accepting 2025 tax returns.
- Individual and Joint filing taxpayers have until April 15, 2026 to file and pay any tax due.
- The IRS offers online tools and resources to help you file, check your account, track refunds, and find forms.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-first-day-of-2026-filing-season-online-tools-and-resources-help-with-tax-filing
🔹 Get Ready Now for Filing
- The IRS encourages taxpayers to prepare now, gather documents, organize records, and understand changes that may affect their 2025 returns filed in 2026.
- You can access and manage your tax information through an IRS Individual Online Account before filing.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-taxpayers-can-do-to-get-ready-for-the-2026-tax-filing-season
🔹 Increased Standard Deductions and Bracket Adjustments
- The IRS has increased the standard deduction amounts for tax year 2026 — helping many taxpayers reduce taxable income.
- These adjustments are part of the annual inflation updates released by the IRS.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-releases-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2026-including-amendments-from-the-one-big-beautiful-bill
🔹 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit Changes
- The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) has increased in 2026 due to inflation, offering higher maximum credit amounts for qualifying families.
- The IRS notes the EITC and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) refunds might be delayed until early March to allow time for review and fraud prevention.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-releases-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2026-including-amendments-from-the-one-big-beautiful-bill
(Official IRS statements about refund timing for EITC/ACTC are part of broader guidance about filing season readiness at IRS.gov.)
🔹 New Reporting and Filing Considerations
- The IRS reminds taxpayers that all taxable income must be reported — including income from payment apps, online sales, and digital assets — even if you do not receive specific tax forms.
- You will use IRS forms like 1099-K and 1099-DA when applicable.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/prepare-to-file-in-2026-get-ready-for-tax-season-with-key-updates-essential-tips
🔹 Direct Deposit and Faster Refund Options
- The IRS is phasing out paper refund checks; using direct deposit is now the fastest way to receive refunds.
- If you do not have a bank account, consider opening one to speed refund delivery.
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/prepare-to-file-in-2026-get-ready-for-tax-season-with-key-updates-essential-tips
How Nealy Knows Tax Services Can Help You This Tax Season
The 2026 tax season includes notable updates that affect millions of taxpayers. At Nealy Knows Tax Services, we help you:
- Understand how standard deduction increases and credit changes affect your tax outcome
• Prepare your documentation early and accurately
• Choose whether itemizing or the standard deduction maximizes your savings
• Navigate new reporting requirements for digital income and third-party payments
• Avoid errors that can delay refunds, especially for EITC/ACTC claims
• Plan ahead with proactive tax strategies, not just last-minute filing
We simplify the tax code so you can keep more of your hard-earned money.
Nealy Knows Tip
Start early, stay organized, and work with a tax strategist who understands the latest IRS updates. That approach often yields smoother filing, fewer surprises, and more tax savings.
📞 Ready for expert help?
Schedule your Free 15 Minute Tax Assessment with Nealy Knows Tax Services and make the most of this tax season’s changes.