Tax season 2027 is when you file your 2026 tax return. The IRS usually starts accepting returns in late January, and the regular deadline, Tax Day 2027, is Thursday, April 15, 2027. The IRS announces the exact opening date each January. I'll update this page as soon as it's out.
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Fri, Jan 15, 2027 | Last 2026 estimated tax payment due (for 1099 and self-employed workers who pay quarterly) |
| Late January 2027 | IRS starts accepting 2026 returns (exact date announced in January) |
| Mon, Feb 1, 2027 | Employers must send W-2s and businesses must send 1099-NECs (moved from Jan 31, a Sunday) |
| Mid-February 2027 | Earliest refunds for returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit |
| Thu, Apr 15, 2027 | Tax Day: 2026 returns and any tax owed are due; last day to request an extension |
| Fri, Oct 15, 2027 | Deadline for returns with an approved extension |
The IRS usually opens tax season in the last week of January. That's the first day it accepts and processes 2026 returns. Many preparers, including me, can prepare your return before then and send it as soon as the IRS opens.
Your 2026 federal return is due Thursday, April 15, 2027. If you owe, payment is due the same day, even if you get an extension. Most states use the same date, but check yours.
Employers and businesses have until Monday, February 1, 2027 to send them. That's one day later than usual because January 31 falls on a Sunday.
For 1099 workers, one change matters this year: for work done in 2026, a business only has to send a 1099-NEC if it paid you $2,000 or more (it used to be $600). If you earned less from a client, you may not get a form, but you still have to report that income. Keep your own records of every payment.
You can file as soon as you have every form, and the IRS is accepting returns. Filing with a missing W-2 or 1099 is one of the most common reasons for delays and IRS letters, so wait until everything has arrived.
By law, the IRS can't send refunds for returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit before mid-February, even if you file early. This gives the IRS time to check for fraud. Read more about refund delays →
You can request an automatic six-month extension by April 15, 2027, which moves your filing deadline to October 15, 2027. An extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay, so estimate and pay what you owe by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
I'm LaCaya, your Tax Bestie. I prepare W-2, 1099 and mixed-income returns virtually in all 50 states, one-to-one from start to finish. Every return starts with a free review and an upfront quote.
These articles provide general information, not tax advice for your situation. Your return depends on your individual facts. Reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
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