What the 2026 Tax Filing Season Means for Taxpayers and Businesses: Key Changes to Know Now

The IRS has announced that the 2026 tax filing season will officially open on January 26, consistent with recent years. While the date itself may feel routine, this filing season is shaping up to be anything but business as usual.

Between major legislative changes, new deductions and credits, and a significantly reduced IRS workforce, taxpayers and businesses should prepare for a more complex—and potentially slower—filing environment. Here’s what you need to know and how proactive tax planning can help reduce surprises.

A Filing Season Under New Legislation

One of the most significant developments impacting the 2026 filing season is the implementation of H.R. 1, P.L. 119-21, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This legislation introduces several new provisions affecting federal taxes, credits, and deductions.

To support these changes, the IRS has updated its systems and introduced new forms, including Schedule 1-A, which will be used to claim several newly enacted deductions. These include:

• Deductions for tips and overtime

• Car loan interest deductions for qualifying vehicles

• A new deduction for seniors

• Trump accounts, a newly created retirement-style account for children

  
  

Each of these provisions introduces planning opportunities—but also complexity. Eligibility rules, income thresholds, and documentation requirements will matter more than ever.

Fewer IRS Employees, More Responsibility on Taxpayers

The IRS is entering the 2026 filing season with approximately 25% fewer

employees than last year. More than 25,000 employees have departed through various workforce reduction programs, according to a Treasury Inspector General report.

While the IRS has stated it is confident in its ability to manage the filing season, reduced staffing may lead to:

• Longer processing times

• Delays in correspondence or issue resolution

• Slower responses to notices or audits

  
  

For taxpayers, this makes accuracy and preparedness critical. Errors or incomplete filings could take significantly longer to resolve than in prior years.

What to Expect for Refunds and Filing

The IRS expects to receive approximately 164 million individual tax returns during the 2026 season, with most taxpayers filing electronically. The deadline to file and pay taxes remains April 15, with extensions available until October 15.

Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to use direct deposit for refunds, as the IRS continues to phase out paper refund checks under an executive order. Refund status can be tracked using the IRS’s Where’s My Refund? tool.

Why Advisory-Led Tax Planning Matters More Than Ever

With new deductions, evolving compliance requirements, and limited IRS capacity, tax planning should no longer be treated as a once-a-year exercise. Strategic, advisory-driven tax support can help:

• Identify new deductions and credits you may qualify for

• Optimize cash flow and withholding strategies

• Reduce the risk of filing errors or IRS notices

• Align tax decisions with broader financial and business goals

  
  

At a time when the IRS is asking taxpayers to do more with less support, working with a full-service tax and advisory firm provides clarity, confidence, and proactive guidance.

Start Planning Now

Whether you are an individual taxpayer navigating new deductions, a business owner managing workforce-related tax changes, or a high-net-worth family focused on long-term planning, early preparation is key.

Now is the time to review your tax strategy—before the filing season begins.