IRS Gives Guidance on Getting Ready For the 2026 Tax Season

The IRS Get Ready campaign offers tips, reminders and new information on what you need to prepare for the 2026 tax filing season. Among the changes and additions the OBBBA brings are tax deductions for tips, overtime, car loan interest and seniors.

Here are tips to prepare for filing season:

• Access or login to an existing IRS online account securely to access personal tax information, including recently filed returns. Through this tool you can:
  • View tax records, including adjusted gross income and transcripts.
  • Make, schedule and view payments.
  • Get or view your Identity Protection PIN.
  • Authorize a tax professional to access tax records digitally.
  • Access available Forms W-2 and certain 1099s.
  • View and edit communication preferences from the IRS like using Braille or large print.
  • Receive and view over 200 IRS digital notices.
  • Set up or change payment plans and check their balance.
• Gather and organize tax records to help file complete and accurate tax returns and avoid tax errors that could delay refunds. Doing so can help you identify deductions or credits you may have overlooked.
  • Most income is taxable, including unemployment compensation, refund interest and income from the gig economy, as well as digital assets.
  • Watch for and gather essential forms: W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, other income documents as they become available in 2026.

Start early on tax preparation to avoid last-minute stress. Note big changes, gather documents and decide how to file. A little advance work preparing and organizing information can help with filing your returns quickly and accurately.

Of course, this is just a tip-of-the-iceberg summary. Tax prep is not a DIY event; be sure to get expert advice.