The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026).
Keeping track of tax deadlines is key to avoiding penalties and making sure you get your full tax refund. If you miss important dates, like the deadline to file taxes, you could end up paying more than you should. Whether you’re filing on your own or hiring a professional, it’s important to know when taxes are due for the 2025 tax year. To make things easier, we’ve rounded up all the 2026 tax deadlines you need to know. From estimated tax payments to the last day to file taxes, staying ahead of these dates will help you avoid stress and make the tax season a little smoother.
December 18, 2025
ezTaxReturn Soft Opening
Get a head start on your basic federal tax return at ezTaxReturn.com.
January 9, 2026
Opening Day at ezTaxReturn
You can begin using ezTaxReturn’s tax preparation software to file taxes online. It’s fast, easy, and you’re guaranteed to get the biggest possible tax refund.
January 15, 2026
4th Quarter 2025 Estimated Tax Payments Due
Self-employed individuals and those with income not subject to tax withholding need to make their final estimated tax payment for 2025 by January 15th. Payments can be made online, via the IRS2GO app, or by mail.
January 28, 2026
IRS Tax Filing Season Begins
The IRS will start accepting and processing 2025 federal tax returns.
January 30, 2026
EITC Awareness Day
Workers who earn low to moderate incomes may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The maximum credit amount is $8,046 for tax year 2025. To qualify, you must meet certain requirements and file a tax return.
January 30, 2026
Deadline for Employers to Mail Your W-2
Your employers must issue your W-2 by February 2nd. If you haven’t received your W-2 by mid-February, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for assistance.
1099 Deadlines
Certain 1099 forms (such as 1099-NEC, 1099-K, and 1099-INT) must be issued by February 2nd.
April 1, 2026
First Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Deadline
If you turned 73 in 2025, you must take your 2025 required minimum distribution (first RMD) by April 1, 2026.
April 15, 2026
Tax Day
The tax deadline for most Americans is April 15, 2026. Your federal and state tax returns must be e-filed or postmarked by midnight. This is the last day to file taxes without penalty for most taxpayers. Ready to get started? ezTaxReturn will guide you step by step through the entire process.
Last Chance to Get an Extension to File Your Taxes
Need more time? April 15th is the deadline to request a tax extension. Filing Form 4868 with the IRS will give you until October 15th to file your taxes. Keep in mind that an extension only gives you more time to file, not to pay any taxes owed.
Final Day for 2025 IRA Contributions
April 15th is the last day you can contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA for 2025. The contribution limit is $7,000 ($8,000 if you’re 50 or older).
Deadline for 2025 HSA Contributions
You also have until April 15th to make your 2025 HSA contribution: up to $4,300 for self-only coverage or $8,550 for family coverage.
First Quarter 2026 Estimated Tax Payments Due
People who don’t have income taxes withheld from their paychecks throughout the year should make quarterly estimated tax payments. This includes freelancers, self-employed individuals, and landlords. You can use IRS Form 1040-ES to calculate how much you’ll owe for income taxes. Your first quarter 2026 estimated tax payment is due April 15th.
June 15, 2026
Second Quarter 2026 Estimated Tax Payments Due
If you’re self-employed or have other income without tax withholding, your second quarter 2026 estimated tax payment is due by June 16th.
June 30, 2025
FAFSA Filing Deadline
The deadline to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024-2025 school year is June 30th. You must submit your FAFSA before the deadline to be considered for grants, scholarships, federal work-study and federal student loans. ezTaxReturn users can easily download their tax return for FAFSA purposes here.
September 15, 2026
Third Quarter 2026 Estimated Tax Payments Due
Those who are self-employed or have other income without tax withholding, must make their third quarter 2026 estimated tax payment by September 15th.
October 1, 2026
FAFSA Open Date
You can begin submitting your 2026-2027 FAFSA starting October 1st. Many schools award financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to apply early.
October 15, 2026
Extended Tax Deadline
If you filed for a tax extension, October 15th is the last day to file taxes for the 2025 tax year. With ezTaxReturn, preparing your federal tax return is fast and easy.
November 1, 2026
Open Enrollment for Health Insurance Marketplace Begins
The open enrollment period for the 2027 health insurance plans starts November 1, 2027.
December 31, 2026
Required Minimum Distribution Deadline
If you are 73 or older, December 31st is your last day to withdraw the RMD from your retirement account.
FSA Use-It-Or-Lose-It Deadline
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), December 31 is often the last day to use the remaining balance or forfeit the cash. Some employers offer a grace period or allow a carryover of up to $660.
January 15, 2026
4th Quarter 2025 Estimated Tax Payment Due
Make your fourth quarter 2025 estimated tax payment by January 15, 2026, if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are federal taxes due for 2026?
Federal income taxes for the 2025 tax year are due on April 15, 2026, unless the date falls on a weekend or holiday. In that case, the deadline moves to the next business day.
When does the IRS start accepting tax returns?
The IRS typically begins accepting returns in late January. For the 2026 tax season, the official start date is January 28, 2026.
What if I miss the April 15 tax deadline?
If you miss the deadline without filing an extension, the IRS may charge penalties and interest. Filing as soon as possible helps reduce additional fees.
How do I request a tax extension?
You can file Form 4868 by April 15 to receive a six‑month extension. This gives you until October 15, 2026 to file your return.
Does a tax extension give me more time to pay?
No. A tax extension only gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. Any taxes owed are still due by April 15.
When are estimated quarterly tax payments due?
Estimated tax payments are due four times a year:
- April 15
- June 15
- September 15
- January 15 of the following year
These deadlines apply to freelancers, gig workers, and anyone who doesn’t have taxes withheld.
What if a tax deadline falls on a weekend or holiday?
The IRS automatically moves the deadline to the next business day, so you never have to file on a weekend or federal holiday.
Are state tax deadlines the same as federal deadlines?
Many states follow the federal April 15 deadline, but not all. Check your state’s tax agency for exact dates.
Can I file my taxes early?
Yes. You can prepare your return with ezTaxReturn before the IRS opens and submit it electronically as soon as they begin accepting returns.
How can I make sure I don’t miss a tax deadline?
Set reminders, organize your documents early, and consider filing electronically to avoid delays or last‑minute stress.
Can I file my taxes online to meet the deadline?
Absolutely. Filing online with a service like ezTaxReturn is the fastest and easiest way to meet tax deadlines, avoid errors, and get your refund sooner.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
