How to File US Taxes In 2026

The IRS deadline to file your 2025 tax return is April 15, 2026. If your taxes aren’t too complex, you may be able to file your taxes for free through tax return software or directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). But if you have a complicated return, it might be worth paying a little extra for a professional tax preparation service.

No matter which option you choose to file, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to survive tax season without getting overwhelmed.

Key 2026 tax season deadlines

Here are the important tax year dates to know when filing in 2026:

• IRS begins accepting tax returns late January 2026
• Employers must file W-2s by February 2, 2026
• Tax filing deadline on April 15, 2026
• Deadline for extended returns on October 15, 2026

Taxes 101: How to file your 2025 tax return in four steps

It can feel overwhelming if you’re new to tax filing and preparation, but the process can be easily boiled down into four basic steps. Whether you are about to file taxes for the first time at 18, or you just want to try doing it yourself, here are the general steps to guide you through a typical filing process.

Step 1: Gather your documents

We’ve listed some common tax forms you may need to complete your tax returns for the 2025 tax year. Some of these, such as Form W-2, are typically sent to you. And if you e-file, most tax software will automatically show you the forms you must complete based on your situation.

Form	Details
Form W-2	If you’re employed, your employer sends this to report your earnings and tax withholdings. February 2nd is the deadline for employers to file their employee’s W-2s.
Form 1099	Used to report income for self-employment or income from other sources outside of employment.
Form 1099-INT	Used to report interest earnings from deposit accounts, such as a savings account.
Form 1040	For medical and dental expenses, some supplemental income, and Child Tax Credits.
Form 1098	Used for mortgage payment interest deductions.
Form 8863	Claim education credits and more.
Form 8829	Can be used for sole proprietors to calculate the home office deduction or other in-home office deductions.
Form 8283	Report noncash charitable donations if more than $500.
Form 8880	Related to retirement contributions, used to figure out if you qualify for the retirement savings contributions credit.

Step 2: Choose how to file

You generally have three options when it comes to filing your taxes:

1. Print off your tax form and fill it out yourself. You can file your tax returns directly with the IRS through Free File. But you won’t receive guidance or instruction, so ensure you’re comfortable with your tax knowledge before choosing this tax filing option.
2. Use a tax preparation software. Common e-file options include TurboTax, H&R Block and FreeTaxUSA. These options can walk you through the filing process and are often considered one of the fastest ways to complete tax returns.
3. Hire a tax preparer. H&R Block has physical locations to file taxes, and you may also have a local professional tax preparation service in your area.

Step 3: Do the paperwork

If you’re going the e-file route, you can typically complete your tax return on your computer or phone. Most e-file options have step-by-step instructions and guide you through the process. More than 213.3 million returns and other forms were filed electronically, which is 78.6% of all filings, as reported by the IRS.

If you go with a professional tax preparer, it might take a few days for them to submit your return. They may contact you during the process to clarify information or request additional information, and you’ll need to supply the required documents. However, this option requires little to no work on your end, as the tax service will complete the forms and submit them on your behalf.

Step 4: Get your refund (if you’re owed one)

For 2024, the average refund amount was $3,124. If you’re owed a refund, you can typically choose how you want to receive it, such as a mailed check or direct deposit into the account of your choosing. Some banks allow you to receive direct deposit up to two days early. For example, Chime offers online tax filing and refund delivery up to six days early if you direct deposit it into your Chime account.

Many tax preparation software and services offer to let you pay them for their services out of your refund. However, this typically involves an extra fee. For example, H&R Block lets you pay them out of your refund for an additional $42.

If you aren’t owed a refund but instead owe, most online tax software lets you pay the difference directly. You can usually pay directly from your bank account or by card, check or money order. The IRS also offers installment agreements if you can’t pay your tax bill by the deadline.

Beginner’s guide: How to e-file with Turbo Tax

Bottom line

Filing taxes doesn’t have to be stressful if you prepare in advance. Gather your documents early, choose a filing method that works for you and take advantage of deductions and credits to lower your tax bill. If in doubt, consider hiring a tax professional to make sure you’re filing correctly and maximizing your refund.

Frequently asked questions

When can I file my tax return for 2025?

Late January 2026 is when the IRS starts allowing taxpayers to start filing their returns. The tax filing deadline is April 15, 2026.

When should I get my tax refund in 2026?

The IRS states that it will take around 21 days or less to receive your refund after filing if you’re owed one.

What is the Child Tax Credit for 2025?

For the 2025 tax year, you can receive up to $2,200 for each qualifying child under the Child Tax Credit. You can claim the Child Tax Credit on Form 1040 and attach it to Schedule 8812 with your federal tax return, as explained by the IRS.

If I make less than $5,000 a year, do I have to file taxes?

If you make less than $5,000, you may not be required to file taxes. If you’re filing status is single and your gross income was under $14,600, and you were under the age 65, you may be not be required to file. However, it still may be a good idea to file to see if you’re owed a refund. If you’re unsure, talk to a tax professional about your options.

If you owe taxes how long do you have to pay?

Typically, you owe the balance by the filing deadline (April 15). And if you’re not able to pay your balance right away, you can request a payment plan with the IRS. These payment plans require creating an IRS Online Account, and the fees and interest varies depending on the length of the plan.