WASHINGTON, Jan. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Taxpayers can get a head start on preparing their 2025 federal tax returns as the IRS Free File program is now available ahead of the official start of the tax filing season, with free filing available at IRS.gov/FreeFile.

You have several weeks to file your 2025 state and federal income tax returns, but if you run out of time, here's how to file for an extension.

File will January 26, 2026. This is earlier than we projected, and a day earlier than last year. With this date in mind, you can estimate your tax refund timeline. Based on public comments from Internal Revenue Service leadership and combined with the delays related to major changes and staffing issues,

The Internal Revenue Service has announced when it will begin accepting tax returns in 2026. Tax filing season begins Monday, Jan. 26, and will run until Wednesday, April 15. The IRS expects to receive about 164 million individual income tax returns this year, with most taxpayers filing electronically, according to an IRS news release.

The federal tax filing deadline for most Americans is April 15, 2026. State tax deadlines may differ, so check your local government website for updates and extensions. Missing forms or deadlines can result in penalties. Check your income paperwork early.