You can generally start filing your 2025 taxes for the 2026 filing season in late January 2026 , once the IRS opens e‑filing and begins processing returns.

Key 2026 dates

  • The IRS typically opens the filing season in the last half of January , and early indications for 2026 suggest a similar timeframe (often around the third or fourth week).
  • Tax Day for 2026 is April 15, 2026 for most individual federal returns for tax year 2025.
  • Many employers and payers must send W‑2 and key 1099 forms by January 31, 2026 , so practically most people are ready to file in early February.

When you should start

  • Start preparing now / early January 2026 : gather last year’s return, Social Security numbers, and expected income forms; the IRS is already pushing “Get Ready” reminders for early 2026.
  • You can begin entering information into tax software as soon as you receive your forms , even before the official IRS opening date; the software will queue your return and transmit it when e‑filing opens.
  • If you expect a refund , filing as soon as e‑filing opens usually means getting money faster, and helps avoid last‑minute delays.

Mini timeline for 2026

  • Now through early January 2026 : Organize documents and check IRS “Get Ready” resources so you understand any law changes.
  • Late January 2026 :
    • IRS opens e‑filing; first returns can be submitted and processed.
* W‑2s and many 1099s are due to you from employers/payers by Jan. 31.
  • February–March 2026 : Ideal window for most people to file once all forms are in hand and any corrections are resolved.
  • April 15, 2026 : Last day to file or to request an extension and pay any tax due for 2025.

Forum-style perspective

“First time filing—when should I start?”
Most personal finance and tax forum regulars advise:

  • Start prepping in January (make a checklist, create a folder, compare pay stubs to W‑2s).
  • Actually file as soon as you have all forms and the IRS is open , especially if you’re due a refund or worry about identity‑theft filings in your name.
  • Wait to file if you suspect missing or corrected forms (like amended 1099s from brokers), which often arrive in February.

Practical checklist before you file

  • Confirm you have: W‑2s, 1099s, interest/dividend statements, mortgage interest, tuition forms, and records for credits/deductions (child care, education, HSA, IRA, etc.).
  • Review any 2025–2026 tax law changes affecting standard deduction, credits, or withholding so your numbers look reasonable.
  • Decide whether to use software, a preparer, or Free File options , depending on complexity and income.

Bottom line: For “when to start filing taxes 2026,” plan to get organized in early January and aim to file anytime from late January through February 2026 , well ahead of the April 15 deadline.

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