The 2026 federal tax filing season is officially underway, and US taxpayers can now file their 2025 federal income tax returns using Form 1040. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) begins accepting and processing returns in late January, kicking off the annual filing window that typically runs through mid-April.
A sign is seen outside the Internal Revenue Service building, May 4, 2021, in Washington. (AP)With filing open, the IRS says taxpayers who prepare early may be in a better position to avoid delays, errors or refund problems, especially as several tax law changes take effect this year.
What does Form 1040 cover?Form 1040 is the primary document that individuals use to report income, claim deductions and credits, and calculate taxes owed or refunds.
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Most taxpayers will file Form 1040, while those 65 and older can choose Form 1040-SR, which follows the same rules and schedule.
Income that must be reported includes wages, interest, unemployment compensation, gig economy income, and certain digital asset transactions.
Set up or review your IRS online accountAs filing begins, the IRS encourages taxpayers to create or log into their IRS personal online account Accounts allow users to view tax transcripts, confirm adjusted gross income, manage payments, retrieve an identity protection PIN, and digitally access selected tax documents.
Having an active account can help filers verify information before submitting Form 1040.
Collect basic documentsOrganizing records is one of the most important steps during filing season. Taxpayers should collect Forms W-2 from employers and Forms 1099 for interest, dividends, freelance work, unemployment benefits, or retirement income.
Those who earned money through apps or online marketplaces can receive Form 1099-K, while those involved in cryptocurrencies or other digital assets must report related income or losses and answer the Digital Assets question on Form 1040, whether or not they receive a form.
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Review the 2025 tax law changesSeveral provisions under the One, Big, Beautiful bill could affect 2025 returns, including tips, overtime, car loan interest and new deductions tied to seniors. The IRS also updated the eligibility rules for certain credits, which require a valid Social Security Number, or ITIN, issued by the filing deadline, including extensions.
Check ITIN status and refund optionsTaxpayers using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number should ensure that it has not expired, especially if it is not used on returns between 2022 and 2024. The IRS is also encouraging direct deposit for refunds, as paper checks are being phased out under federal payments modernization efforts.
The IRS says starting early can help taxpayers file accurate 2025 Form 1040 returns and get refunds faster.
