Tax filing season starts Jan. 26, 2026 per IRS.

Taxpayers can expect to start filing federal income tax returns on Jan. 26, 2026, with refunds averaging almost $3,200 last year and potentially increasing by $1,000 this year. Significant tax changes retroactive to 2025 could impact 2025 tax returns, including new tax breaks like eliminating taxes on some income and increasing the SALT deduction cap. Refunds are typically issued in less than 21 days for electronic filers, while paper returns may take longer, with the IRS’ “Where’s My Refund” tool providing updates within 24 hours for e-filed returns.

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