Tax Season Arrives: Tips for Stress-Free Filing

From gathering documents to understanding new deductions, here's what you need to know for the 2026 tax season.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Tax season is underway, and the deadline to file your return with the IRS is April 15. Experts advise getting organized early, gathering all necessary documents, and being aware of changes to deductions and credits. Free resources are available to help navigate the process, and taxpayers should be on the lookout for common mistakes and tax scams.

Why it matters

Preparing taxes can be a stressful process, but taking the right steps can help ensure a smooth and successful filing. Understanding the latest tax law changes and utilizing available resources can maximize refunds and minimize headaches.

The details

Among the key changes for the 2026 tax year are an increase in the standard deduction, an expanded state and local tax (SALT) deduction, and new deductions for tips and car loan interest. Taxpayers should also be aware of the phaseout of the IRS Direct File program and the availability of free tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

  • The tax filing deadline is April 15, 2026.
  • The Republican tax and spending bill that introduced new deductions was signed into law in the summer of 2025.

The players

Tom O'Saben

Director of tax content and government relations at the National Association of Tax Professionals.

Miguel Burgos

Certified public accountant and expert for TurboTax.

Keith Hall

President and CEO of the National Association for the Self-Employed and a certified CPA.

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What they’re saying

“Don't wait until the last minute but also don't rush.”

— Tom O'Saben, Director of tax content and government relations at the National Association of Tax Professionals (WRAL)

“This is a big benefit, especially for states like California, New York, and New Jersey, that have a higher state income tax.”

— Keith Hall, President and CEO of the National Association for the Self-Employed and a certified CPA (WRAL)

“It can be cash, it can be electronic as well. But the main thing is, hey, it has to be voluntary (tips).”

— Miguel Burgos, Certified public accountant and expert for TurboTax (WRAL)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This tax season, taxpayers should take advantage of new deductions, utilize free resources, and be vigilant against common mistakes and scams to ensure a stress-free filing process and maximize their refunds.