The Countdown Is On: Opening Day for the 2026 Tax Season is January 26, 2026

For all of us at AM Income Tax, your family tax service, the weeks leading up to opening day of the tax filing season, always feel a little like preparing for a big family gathering. Phones start ringing, clients begin dropping off their documents, and we get everything ready to welcome another tax season. This year the excitement officially kicks off on January 26, 2026, when the IRS opens e-file for the 2025 tax year. Thus, the COUNTDOWN has begun—and now is the perfect time to start preparing.

Why Starting Early Matters More Than Ever

Every year we see the same thing: families who start early experience less stress, fewer surprises, and faster refunds. Getting a head start allows time to gather missing documents, review life changes, and explore every credit and deduction available to you. For parents, retirees, and small business owners especially, early preparation can make a real difference in how much you owe—or get back.

What’s New for the 2026 Filing Season

The 2026 tax season brings several important updates tied to recent tax law changes. Some of the biggest updates include new and expanded deductions and credits designed to help working families and retirees keep more of what they earn.

Depending on your situation, you may benefit from:

• Expanded standard and itemized deductions that reduce taxable income for many households

• New or enhanced family-related deductions and credits, including child and dependent benefits

• Retirement-friendly deductions for seniors and those living on Social Security and investment income

• Small business and self-employed write-offs that allow entrepreneurs to deduct more of their operating costs

These changes can have a major impact on your tax bill—but only if they are properly applied. That’s why having a knowledgeable, attentive tax professional matters more than ever this year.

With January 26, 2026 right around the corner, now is the time to start gathering your documents, reviewing last year’s return, and thinking about any life changes that happened in 2025—new jobs, new babies, retirement, or business growth. The earlier you start, the smoother and more rewarding your tax season will be.