The IRS has not publicly stated when it will begin accepting tax returns in 2026. Last year, the agency began accepting returns on Jan. 27.

As the 2026 tax filing season draws closer, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is encouraging Americans to begin preparing now by reviewing a set of "essential tips" aimed at avoiding delays, errors and missed benefits.

Learn how the new "no tax on tips" deduction can reduce your federal taxable income by up to $25,000 if you earn tips at work.

The Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan think tank, estimates that the various tax cuts included in the bill will increase the average Americans tax return by anywhere from $300 to $1,000 when filing in 2026.