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

From gathering documents to avoiding common mistakes, here's how to prepare for tax season with ease.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tax season is underway, and there are several key things taxpayers should know to make the filing process smoother. Gathering all necessary documents, understanding changes to deductions and credits, and utilizing free resources are some of the best practices. Experts advise against waiting until the last minute and highlight the importance of double-checking information to avoid common errors that could trigger an IRS audit.

Why it matters

Navigating the tax filing process can be stressful for many Americans, especially with changes to deductions and credits. By providing practical tips and highlighting free resources, this story aims to empower taxpayers to file their returns confidently and avoid common pitfalls.

The details

Taxpayers should gather all necessary documents, including W-2 forms, 1099s, and records of eligible deductions and credits. Notable changes for this year include an increase in the standard deduction, an expansion of the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, and new deductions for tips and car loan interest. The IRS offers free filing options for those who qualify, as well as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. Experts advise double-checking information, such as Social Security numbers and income sources, to avoid common mistakes that could lead to an IRS audit.

  • The tax filing deadline is April 15, 2026.

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 (The Associated Press)

“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 (The Associated Press)

“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 (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The IRS will begin processing tax returns on April 1, 2026, and the filing deadline is April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

By taking proactive steps to gather documents, understand changes to the tax code, and utilize free resources, taxpayers can navigate the filing process with confidence and avoid common mistakes that could lead to an IRS audit.