Tax Season Arrives: What You Need to Know for Stress-Free Filing

From new deductions to free filing options, here's how to navigate the 2026 tax season.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Tax season is underway, and taxpayers have until April 15 to file their returns with the IRS. Experts recommend getting organized early, gathering all necessary documents, and taking advantage of new deductions and free filing resources to avoid the stress of the looming deadline.

Why it matters

With changes to the tax code, including new deductions for tips, car loan interest, and seniors, as well as an increased cap on the state and local tax (SALT) deduction, taxpayers need to be aware of the latest updates to maximize their refunds and minimize their tax burden.

The details

Key changes for the 2026 tax season include a higher standard deduction, an increased SALT deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000, and new deductions for qualified tips, car loan interest, and taxpayers aged 65 or older. Taxpayers should also be aware of free filing options, such as the IRS Free File program for those making $89,000 or less, as well as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

  • Tax season is underway, with a filing deadline of April 15, 2026.
  • The Republican tax and spending bill that President Donald Trump signed in the summer of 2025 introduced several new deductions for the 2026 tax year.

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 (chicagotribune.com)

“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 (chicagotribune.com)

“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 (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

Taxpayers should gather all necessary documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, and records of eligible deductions, and consider utilizing free filing resources like the IRS Free File program or VITA and TCE clinics.

The takeaway

With new deductions and an increased SALT deduction cap, the 2026 tax season presents an opportunity for taxpayers to maximize their refunds and minimize their tax burden. However, it's important to be vigilant against tax scams and to seek professional assistance if needed to ensure a stress-free filing process.