IRS will open the 2026 tax season in the coming days, but many taxpayers may end up spending money unnecessarily to file their 2025 income tax returns. According to NerdWallet, nearly 70% of Americans qualify to file their federal taxes for free, but only a small fraction actually use these options. The National Taxpayers Union Foundation estimates that the average filer spends about $290 and several hours each year just to complete their return.
When does the 2026 tax season begin?
The 2026 tax season officially begins when the IRS announces the opening date. Once the window opens, taxpayers can start submitting their 2025 income tax returns. At the same time, the IRS Free File program will go live, allowing eligible filers to prepare and submit their federal taxes at no cost through approved partner software.
Who is eligible to file taxes for free?
Taxpayers earning less than $84,000 a year generally qualify to file their federal income taxes for free using IRS-approved software. IRS website also guides filers through the process and explains which documents are required, including income statements, tax forms, and details on deductions or credits.
Free and low cost tax filing options
In addition to the IRS Free File program, several well-known tax preparation platforms offer free or low-cost filing options for simple tax situations. These include TurboTax’s free edition, FreeTaxUSA, MyFreeTaxes by the United Way, TaxAct, and services available through the Free File Alliance. Some platforms may charge a small fee for state tax returns, even if federal filing is free.
Tax filing deadline for 2026
For most taxpayers, the deadline to file 2025 income tax returns is April 15, 2026, which falls on a Wednesday. Taxpayers who are unable to file by this date can request a six-month extension, pushing the filing deadline to October 15, 2026. However, an extension does not give additional time to pay any taxes owed, and payments should still be made by April 15 to avoid penalties.
When will you receive your tax refund?
The IRS says taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit can typically expect their refund within 21 days. Those who file a paper return may wait four weeks or longer to receive their refund.
Failing to file a federal tax return on time can result in a penalty of 5% of the unpaid tax for each month the return is late, up to a maximum of 25%. If a return is filed but taxes are not paid, or if an extension is granted, the penalty is usually lower at 0.5% per month on the unpaid amount. In certain situations, such as natural disasters or state-specific holidays, the IRS may extend filing deadlines.
1099 forms
Freelancers, independent contractors, and others who earn income outside of traditional employment should receive their 1099 tax forms by February 15. Employers are generally required to send these forms by the end of January, giving taxpayers time to prepare their returns accurately.
Taxpayers whose income is not subject to withholding are typically required to make estimated tax payments to the IRS. These payments can be made quarterly or through an annualized estimate, which is due by April 15. Quarterly estimated tax payments for 2026 are spread across April, June, September, and January of the following year.