Lotus Li

Late federal or state law changes can delay agencies’ and software providers’ ability to update systems, which can push back when returns can be processed and when refunds are issued.

What “life changes in 2025” impact when you file in 2026

Your 2026 filing season (generally Jan–Apr 2026) is when you file your 2025 federal return. The IRS opened the 2026 filing season on January 26, 2026, and the federal deadline for most individuals to file 2025 returns is April 15, 2026.

Estimated tax is supposed to be based on the facts and circumstances known at each installment date, plus what you can reasonably anticipate for the year (for example, continuing wages

Any expansion, contraction, or new limitation on itemized deductions matters only if your total itemized deductions exceed your standard deduction (or if you are not eligible for the standard deduction).

For most 401(k)/403(b)/governmental 457(b)/TSP plans, the age 50+ catch-up limit for 2026 is $8,000 (so $32,500 total if you are eligible for catch-up)

For tax years beginning in 2025, the federal itemized deduction cap for state and local income/sales/property taxes is increased to $40,000 ($20,000 if married filing separately),

Some tax items can be done after year-end but before you file (and still count for the prior tax year), while others must have been completed by December 31 of the tax year.

You should consider adjusting your federal income tax withholding when a new tax law (or IRS guidance implementing it) changes your expected tax for the year