### Tax Season 2026: Key Dates and Changes for Filers The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially announced that the 2026 tax filing season will commence on **January 26, 2026**. This date marks when taxpayers can begin submitting their 2025 tax returns, with the deadline for filing set for **April 15, 2026**. This year's tax season will also see the implementation of several new provisions from the recently enacted "One, Big, Beautiful Bill," which may affect various tax credits and deductions available to taxpayers. The IRS anticipates receiving approximately **164 million individual income tax returns** this year, with a significant majority expected to be filed electronically [https://www.lockhaven.com/news/community/2026/01/early-birds-can-begin-filing-their-taxes-on-jan-26-this-year]. ### Structure of the Tax Filing Season Overview 1. **Start and End Dates** - The IRS will begin accepting tax returns on **January 26, 2026**. - The filing deadline is **April 15, 2026**. 2. **New Tax Provisions** - Introduction of new tax law provisions from the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill" that may impact refunds and deductions. - Taxpayers are encouraged to utilize online tools and resources provided by the IRS. 3. **Filing Methods and Resources** - Most taxpayers are expected to file electronically. - The IRS Free File program will be available for eligible taxpayers starting January 9, 2026. 4. **Anticipated Challenges** - The IRS has faced staffing challenges, including layoffs and buyouts, which may affect processing times and efficiency during the filing season. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Key Dates**: - **Start of Filing Season**: January 26, 2026 [https://www.messengernews.net/news/local-news/2026/01/irs-announces-first-day-of-2026-filing-season]. - **Filing Deadline**: April 15, 2026 [https://www.themirror.com/money/irs-accepting-tax-returns-date-1608422]. - **Tax Return Projections**: - The IRS expects to process around **164 million individual income tax returns** this year [https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-to-open-2026-filing-season-jan-26]. - **New Tax Provisions**: - Changes under the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill" may affect various tax credits and deductions, potentially impacting millions of taxpayers [https://www.masslive.com/news/2026/01/irs-confirms-first-day-of-2026-tax-season-key-changes-affecting-your-refunds.html]. ### Summary of Findings In summary, the **2026 tax filing season** will officially begin on **January 26, 2026**, allowing taxpayers to file their 2025 returns until **April 15, 2026**. This season introduces new tax provisions that could significantly affect refunds and deductions. Taxpayers are encouraged to utilize the IRS's online resources and electronic filing options to streamline the process. However, potential challenges due to staffing issues may impact the efficiency of return processing. 1. **Start Date**: January 26, 2026 2. **End Date**: April 15, 2026 3. **New Provisions**: Changes from the "One, Big, Beautiful Bill" 4. **Filing Methods**: Emphasis on electronic filing and IRS resources 5. **Challenges**: Staffing issues may affect processing times For more detailed information, taxpayers can visit the IRS website or consult the various news articles covering the tax season announcements [https://www.kait8.com/2026/01/09/heres-when-irs-will-begin-accepting-2025-tax-returns].