April 15 Filing Deadline Looms: Key Tax Breaks and Filing Strategies for 2026

The IRS begins accepting 2025 tax returns on Jan. 26, 2026, with a filing deadline of April 15.
Taxpayers should file early due to IRS staffing reductions, which could lead to delays in processing and customer support.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced over 100 tax code changes, including larger standard deductions, tax breaks for tips, overtime, and car loan interest.
, with affluent households benefiting most from new tax breaks.
, and paper returns could take weeks longer to process.

With the IRS accepting 2025 tax returns and the April 15 filing deadline fast approaching, 2026 tax filers are navigating a landscape of both opportunities and challenges. The new tax laws, including the , offer several benefits for taxpayers—larger standard deductions, tax breaks for overtime and tip income, and enhanced deductions for car loan interest. However, these benefits come with added complexity, as many provisions require careful documentation.

What Are the Key Tax Changes for the 2026 Filing Season?

The 2026 tax filing season marks a major shift in how taxpayers file and claim benefits. One of the most notable changes is the increased standard deduction, which now stands at a higher threshold, potentially reducing the need for itemization. Additionally, the new tax law removes taxes on certain types of tip and overtime income for some workers, especially those in lower wage jobs or veterans. However, the implementation of these benefits is not as straightforward as it may seem; for example, the car loan interest deduction applies only to new U.S.-assembled vehicles with secured loans. Taxpayers must be prepared for a more detailed filing process to claim these benefits.

The IRS has also emphasized the importance of electronic filing and direct deposit to expedite refunds. With staffing reductions affecting customer service and processing times, taxpayers are advised to file early to avoid delays. According to IRS guidance, paper returns are now processed through outsourcing, which can take up to six weeks.

How Can Taxpayers Prepare for a Smoother Filing Experience?

Proactive tax planning is crucial in the current environment. , taxpayers who wait until the last minute may face significant backlogs and delays. Filing electronically and using direct deposit can help mitigate some of these issues, as e-filed returns tend to be processed faster. Taxpayers should also review their withholding allowances and adjust contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s to align with new tax rules.

For those unsure about eligibility for new deductions, consulting a tax professional is recommended. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced a complex web of rules, especially for those itemizing deductions. For example, the retroactive tax break on tip income means some taxpayers may need to adjust their 2025 returns to reflect these changes. .

Taxpayers who file by April 15, 2026, can take advantage of the new tax benefits and ensure their refunds are processed efficiently. Those who need additional time have until October 15 to file, but any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid interest and penalties. Overall, understanding the new tax landscape and preparing early can make a significant difference in the speed and accuracy of the filing process.