IRS says tax returns can be filed starting Jan. 26. Here's what to know.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced in Washington, D.C., that American taxpayers can begin filing their 2025 federal income tax returns on Monday, January 26, 2026, marking the official start of the nation’s annual tax season. This early announcement is intended to provide individuals and businesses with ample time to gather necessary documentation and prepare for the filing deadline to ensure timely processing of refunds and compliance with federal law. By establishing this specific kickoff date, the agency aims to streamline the submission process for millions of households across the United States. While the filing portal opens in late January, the IRS continues to encourage taxpayers to utilize electronic filing methods and direct deposit to expedite the receipt of any potential refunds. Manual paper returns typically face significantly longer processing times compared to digital submissions. Leading up to the start date, tax software providers and financial professionals are expected to begin accepting prepared returns, which will then be held in queue until the agency's systems officially open for processing. This upcoming tax season will involve the reporting of income and credits earned throughout the 2025 calendar year. The IRS has emphasized the importance of double-checking all reported information, such as Social Security numbers and wage statements, to avoid common errors that lead to processing delays or audits. As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, the agency is also expected to offer expanded digital tools and customer service resources to aid taxpayers in navigating any changes to the tax code that may have been implemented since the previous year.