Each year, the IRS announces the official opening of tax filing season — the date it begins accepting and processing individual tax returns. While the exact start date shifts slightly from year to year, the surrounding deadlines and rules stay fairly consistent, which makes it easier to plan ahead regardless of when the season officially opens.
Here’s what typically determines the tax season start date, what stays the same every year, and what’s different this time around.
When Does IRS Tax Filing Season Start?
The IRS generally opens filing season in mid-to-late January, giving its systems time to update for any tax law changes from the prior year. For the most recent filing season, the IRS began accepting and processing 2025 tax returns on Monday, January 26, 2026.
A few factors commonly affect the exact start date:
- New tax law changes that require IRS systems to be reprogrammed and tested
- Legislation passed late in the prior year, which can delay system updates
- Operational factors, such as agency staffing or funding
Even when the season opens a bit later than in prior years, taxpayers don’t need to wait to prepare. If you work with a tax professional or use tax software, you can complete your return in advance — it will simply be transmitted to the IRS once the filing season officially opens.
The Tax Return Deadline Doesn’t Change
Regardless of when IRS tax filing officially opens, the filing deadline is generally April 15. For the 2026 filing season, that deadline landed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Requesting an Extension
If you need more time to file, you can request an extension by the April 15 deadline. This typically grants you until October 15 to file your return.
Keep in mind:
- An extension only applies to filing your return — not to paying any taxes owed.
- Taxes due are still expected to be paid by the original April 15 deadline, even with an approved extension.
What’s New This Filing Season
Recent filing seasons have introduced new provisions under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act, including a new Schedule 1-A form for claiming deductions related to:
- Tips
- Overtime pay
- Car loan interest
These changes can affect your federal tax liability, credits, and potential refund, so it’s worth reviewing how they apply to your specific situation before filing.
Seek Professional Help
Filing taxes can be complicated, and the rules affecting your return can shift from year to year. It’s always wise to consult a tax professional before filing, or to have one file on your behalf. Professional guidance can help you maximize deductions, avoid errors, and ensure compliance with all IRS requirements. Learn more about what a financial planner does to see how expert advice can simplify your tax and financial planning.
For those in Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida, working with a local, fee-only fiduciary advisor can also help you coordinate tax filing with your broader financial and retirement plan, rather than treating it as a once-a-year task.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does IRS tax filing season usually start?
The IRS typically opens filing season in mid-to-late January. The most recent season opened on January 26, 2026, for 2025 tax returns.
What is the tax filing deadline?
The standard tax return deadline is April 15. For the 2026 filing season, that fell on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Can I get more time to file my taxes?
Yes. You can request an extension by the April 15 deadline, which generally gives you until October 15 to file. This extends your filing deadline only — any taxes owed are still due by April 15.
Do I need to wait for tax season to open to prepare my return?
No. If you work with a tax professional or use tax software, you can prepare your return in advance. It will be transmitted to the IRS once the filing season officially opens.
What’s new for this filing season?
Recent tax law changes under the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act introduced a new Schedule 1-A form for deductions related to tips, overtime pay, and car loan interest.
The Bottom Line
Tax filing season dates can shift slightly from year to year, but the core deadlines — April 15 to file or request an extension, and October 15 for extended filers — remain dependable touchpoints for planning. Staying ahead of these dates, and understanding any new provisions that apply to your return, can make filing season far less stressful.
Have questions about how this year’s tax law changes affect your return or financial plan? Reach out to our team — we’re happy to help you navigate tax season with confidence.
