Paying taxes is a reality for citizens in the United States, and the government is already urging them to start preparing. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) encourages taxpayers to prepare now for the upcoming tax season by visiting IRS.gov/GetReady for tips on what’s new and what to consider before filing their return.
The IRS outlines some steps taxpayers can take now to stay on track
As in previous years, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is already urging Americans to prepare for the upcoming 2026 tax season. The IRS outlines some steps taxpayers can take now to stay on track. This is the first in a series of special IRS reminders to help taxpayers prepare early in 2026 for the next tax filing season. Experts have also weighed in on key documents Americans should have on hand, both tax-related and otherwise. Preparing documentation in advance and organizing information now can help ensure a quick and accurate tax return.
Tax Day 2026 is just a few months away, on Wednesday, April 15, but, according to the IRS, it’s never too early to start for the upcoming tax season
According to the IRS website, it’s important for taxpayers to prepare now, as the Big Beautiful Bill could significantly impact federal taxes, credits, and deductions. Tax Day 2026 is just a few months away, on Wednesday, April 15, but, according to the IRS, it’s never too early to prepare for the upcoming tax season. The IRS and the Treasury Department are working to implement the legislation, including disseminating information about new tax deductions, such as the exemption from taxes on tips, overtime pay, and car loan interest, the new temporary senior citizen deduction, and others.
Important: to have all the bank account information; W-2 forms from your employer(s); 1099 forms from banks and other payers; and records of digital asset transactions
The IRS says it will release new information as it becomes available. The agency encourages taxpayers to take several steps now to be prepared when it’s time to file their federal income tax returns. It’s important, for example, to have all the required documents in order. This includes having all your bank account information; W-2 forms from your employer(s); 1099 forms from banks and other payers; and records of digital asset transactions.
IRS: Taxpayers should also set up direct deposit and, if necessary, a bank account before tax season
In any case, taxpayers should wait until they have received all their tax documents before filing their return. On the other hand, the IRS urges citizens to create an IRS online account. This allows taxpayers to securely access their personal tax information, including recently filed returns. Furthermore, taxpayers should also set up direct deposit and, if necessary, a bank account before tax season, as the IRS phases out paper checks. Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your refund.
The IRS began phasing out paper tax refund checks on September 30, 2025, meaning most taxpayers must provide their routing and account numbers to receive their refunds
Finally, staying informed is essential to avoid mistakes. For example, the IRS began phasing out paper tax refund checks on September 30, 2025, meaning most taxpayers must provide their routing and account numbers to receive their refunds directly into their bank accounts. However, the IRS website states that prepaid debit cards, digital wallets, and mobile apps may be compatible with direct deposit. Therefore, if you have any questions, it’s important to understand the intricacies of tax season.