IRS sets Jan. 26 opening for 2026 tax season as refunds and new rules collide
WASHINGTON, Jan 9, 2026, 11:43 EST The Internal Revenue Service said it will begin accepting and processing 2025 tax returns on Jan. 26, opening the 2026 filing season, with an April 15 deadline to avoid penalties and interest. The agency expects to receive about 164 million individual income tax returns this year. (WTOP News) For many households, the calendar is really about refunds. Last year’s average refund was almost $3,200, based on IRS data, and Piper Sandler said the typical check could rise by about $1,000 this season. The IRS says people who file electronically, known as e-filing, often receive