You can usually submit your federal tax return as soon as the IRS opens “tax season,” which is typically in late January , and you have until April 15 to file for most years in the U.S.

Key dates in simple terms

  • Earliest you can file: The IRS generally starts accepting e-filed returns in the last week of January. Recent seasons opened around January 27, 2025, and January 29, 2024, so late January is a good expectation for 2026 as well.
  • Regular deadline (Tax Day): For most taxpayers, the last day to file your federal return and pay any tax due in 2026 is April 15, 2026.
  • If you need more time: You can file an extension request by April 15 , which typically gives you until October 15 to file the paperwork, though any tax owed is still due by April 15.

Quick scoop for planning

  • You can start getting ready as soon as you receive key forms like W‑2s and 1099s, which usually arrive in January.
  • Many people benefit from filing early : faster refunds, lower risk of identity theft, and more time to fix any issues before the deadline.
  • Exact opening day can change each year, so checking the IRS site or trusted tax providers in early January will give you the precise “tax season opens” date for that year.

TL;DR: You can submit your taxes once the IRS opens filing in late January , and you generally must file (or request an extension) by April 15.

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