2026 Tax Season: Key Deadlines, Refund Info, and Changes to Know

From when to file to how to check your refund status, here's what you need to know for the 2026 tax season.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The IRS has started accepting federal tax returns for the 2025 tax year, with the deadline to file set for April 15. Taxpayers can request an extension to October 15, but may face penalties if they owe taxes. Key changes this year include larger than usual tax refunds due to recent legislation, and the IRS no longer issuing refund checks - direct deposit will be required. Free filing options are available for those who earned $89,000 or less in 2025.

Why it matters

Tax season is an important annual event that impacts millions of Americans. Understanding the deadlines, refund process, and any changes to tax rules can help ensure a smooth filing experience and maximize your refund.

The details

The IRS expects around 164 million individual tax returns to be filed by the April 15 deadline. To request an extension, taxpayers can file Form 4868 by April 15 to get an extra 6 months to complete their return. New for this year, the IRS will no longer be issuing paper refund checks - direct deposit will be required. Tax refunds are expected to be larger on average due to recent tax law changes that are retroactive to 2025.

  • The IRS started accepting 2025 tax returns in late January 2026.
  • Federal and New York state income tax returns are due on April 15, 2026.
  • Taxpayers can file for a 6-month extension by completing Form 4868 by April 15, 2026.
  • Extended tax returns are due by October 15, 2026.

The players

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

The U.S. federal agency responsible for administering and enforcing federal tax laws.

New York Department of Taxation and Finance

The state agency that oversees the collection of New York state taxes.

President Donald Trump

The former U.S. president whose tax and spending package passed in July 2025 included changes that will impact 2025 tax returns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Taxpayers who file for an extension on their state income tax in New York must make their extension payment by the April 15 due date.

The takeaway

With key changes like larger refunds and the elimination of paper checks, it's important for taxpayers to stay up-to-date on the latest tax season deadlines and requirements to ensure a smooth filing process and timely receipt of their refund.