when is the first day we can file taxes

For the 2025 tax year (the return you file in 2026), the first day you can actually file your federal taxes is January 26, 2026, when the IRS begins accepting and processing 2025 returns.

Key date in 2026

• The IRS has announced January 26, 2026, as the official opening of the 2026 tax season for 2025 individual returns.

• This means e‑filed and paper returns for 2025 will start being accepted on that date; anything submitted earlier through software is typically held and transmitted on opening day.

Other important timing notes

• Employers generally must send out W‑2 forms by January 31, 2026, so many people will not be fully ready to file until they receive all forms.

• The deadline to file your 2025 individual federal tax return (or request an extension) is April 15, 2026, unless the date is moved due to a weekend or holiday.

Practical tips

• You can start preparing your return earlier in January as soon as you have your income documents, but it will not be filed with the IRS until on or after January 26, 2026.

• Filing early often leads to faster refunds and reduces the risk of last‑minute issues close to the April deadline.