IRS Filing 2026 Deadline: Dates, Extensions, and Penalties

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IRS Tax Filing 2026: Key Dates and Deadlines

The IRS officially opened the 2026 tax filing season on January 26. You can now submit your 2025 income tax returns. Specifically, most people must file and pay by April 15, 2026. This deadline applies to both your paperwork and any taxes you owe. Actually, a partial government shutdown may slow down your refund processing. You should file early to avoid any last-minute delays or issues.

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At a Glance

• Start Date: January 26, 2026.

• Main Deadline: April 15, 2026.

• Extension Date: October 15, 2026.

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Who Must File a Return?

Most single people under 65 must file if they earn over $15,000. Therefore, check your gross income against the 2025 standard deduction. You also need to file if you had self-employment earnings. Specifically, any profit over $400 requires a tax return. Gather your W-2 and 1099 forms before you start. Use IRS Free File if you earn under $84,000.

Extensions: How to Get More Time

You can ask for six more months to finish your forms. In fact, you must file Form 4868 by the April deadline. This move pushes your filing date to October 15, 2026. Actually, an extension to file is not an extension to pay. You must still estimate and pay your taxes by April 15. If you miss the payment, the IRS adds fees.

Late Penalties and Interest Fees

The IRS charges heavy fees for missing the tax day. First, the late filing penalty is 5% of your unpaid tax. This fee grows for every month your return is late. Specifically, the late payment penalty is 0.5% per month. Finally, the IRS adds daily interest to any balance you owe. Paying even a small amount early can save you money.

Human Insight: The Reality Check

Don’t bank on a fast refund if you wait until April. The current partial government shutdown could stop manual checks. Actually, only e-filed returns with direct deposit are moving fast right now. Reality Check: If you file an extension but do not pay, you lose. Finally, the 8% interest rate is much higher than in past years. Pay as much as you can by April 15. This stops the high interest from eating your savings.

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