when does the irs start accepting tax returns

The IRS typically starts accepting and processing federal individual income tax returns for the prior tax year in late January. For the 2026 tax filing season (covering 2025 taxes), expect e-filing to open around January 24–February 16, 2026 , based on historical patterns and recent projections.

Official Timeline

Tax season kicks off when the IRS announces its exact opening date, usually via a news release. In 2025, it began on January 27; prior years like 2024 started January 29. Filing ends April 15, 2026, for most taxpayers, with extensions possible to October 15. Early e-filing is key for faster refunds, often within 21 days if error-free.

Key 2026 Dates

• January 15, 2026 : Q4 estimated tax payments due for 2025.
• January 31, 2026 : Employers must send W-2s.
• February 16, 2026 : Projected IRS e-file opening (per some estimates).

• April 15, 2026 : Individual returns due.

Preparation Tips

Gather W-2s, 1099s, and deductions early. Use IRS Free File if eligible, or software for direct e-filing. Delays can push refunds later, so monitor IRS.gov announcements. Paper returns take longer—up to 8 weeks.

TL;DR : IRS e-filing opens late January 2026 (likely ~Jan 24–Feb 16); file early for quickest refunds.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.