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.