You generally start filing U.S. federal income taxes once three things are true:

  1. you had income in the prior calendar year, 2) you meet the IRS filing thresholds, and 3) the IRS opens the filing season (usually late January).

Key idea: “When” really means two things

  • When in your life:
    • You must file once your income crosses IRS thresholds for your age and filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.). These thresholds change over time and are published each year by the IRS.
* Even if you’re under the threshold, you may want to file to claim a refund of withheld tax or certain credits.
  • When in the year:
    • For a given “tax year” (e.g., 2025 income), the IRS typically opens e‑filing in late January of the following year; for the 2026 filing season this is expected to be around the last week of January.
* The normal federal deadline to file individual returns is **April 15** , or the next business day if that date falls on a weekend or holiday.

Practical timeline for you

  • Fall–December (same year you earn the income)
    • Keep pay stubs and records of side‑gig or freelance income.
    • Adjust your withholding or estimated payments if you’re underpaying, using IRS guidance and planning resources.
  • January–early February (next year)
    • Wait to receive tax forms like W‑2s from employers and 1099s from banks or gig platforms, usually by Jan 31.
    • Once the IRS opens the season in late January, you can file as soon as you have all your forms and information.
  • By April 15
    • File your return or submit an extension request (Form 4868) if you need more time to file; the extension moves the filing deadline (often to mid‑October) but does not extend time to pay , so you should pay what you estimate you owe by April 15.

How to know if you need to file

  • The IRS provides a “check if you need to file” step and general guidance in its “how to file” pages.
  • Factors include:
    • Filing status and age
    • Gross income level
    • Whether you’re a dependent on someone else’s return
    • Special situations (self‑employment, marketplace health insurance, advance credits, etc.)

Quick answer, rephrased

  • You start filing taxes for a year after it ends, usually late January through April 15 of the following year.
  • You need to start filing once your income and situation meet the IRS filing requirements for that year, even if you’re young or it’s your first job.

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