IRS announces little-known trick to get your 2026 tax returns accepted early

The 2026 tax filing season, for the 2025 tax year, has two starting dates. The official start date for all taxpayers to file federal tax returns is Monday, January 26, 2026. However, a select group of taxpayers can begin submitting their returns earlier. This early submission period starts on Friday, January 9, 2026. This early access is exclusively for "qualified taxpayers" utilizing the IRS Free File program. Specifically, individuals who report $89,000 or less in adjusted gross income and use IRS Free File can submit starting January 9. Taxpayers using IRS Free File with an adjusted gross income over $89,000 must wait until January 26, like everyone else. It is uncertain if submitting early through Free File will result in faster tax refunds. The IRS will begin "accepting" returns on January 9, but not necessarily "processing" them. Despite this, filing as early as possible is generally recommended for quicker refunds. The deadline to file taxes for the 2025 tax year and pay any owed taxes is Wednesday, April 15, 2026.