When is Tax Day in 2026? Review key deadlines, refund timing, and extension options for the upcoming tax season. EP Wealth helps you integrate tax planning within your broader financial strategy.

As the 2026 tax season approaches, EP Wealth shares key dates and information to help you prepare. Our wealth management advisors offer guidance on tax planning strategies that align with your overall financial plan. Find an advisor near you.

When Is Tax Day in 2026?

For the 2026 filing season, most taxpayers will need to submit their 2025 federal income tax return by April 15, 2026.

You can expect to receive your W-2s, 1099s, and other tax forms for the 2025 tax year by February 2, 2026, since January 31 falls on a weekend. Employers, financial institutions, and other payers generally must send these forms by that date so taxpayers have the information needed to prepare their returns.

If you are due a federal or state tax refund, timing will depend on when you file and whether the IRS needs to review your return. Taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit often begin receiving refunds within a few weeks after their return is accepted, with many refunds arriving in late April or May 2026.

CAN I REQUEST AN EXTENSION?

Yes. If you need more time to prepare your 2025 federal tax return, you can request an extension. An approved extension gives you until October 15, 2026 to file your 2025 return. However, it does not give you more time to pay—any taxes owed are still due by April 15, 2026 to avoid interest and possible penalties.

Certain taxpayers may receive automatic additional time without filing an extension form, including:

• Military personnel serving in a combat zone
• Eligible taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas
• Some U.S. citizens or resident aliens living abroad, who typically receive an automatic two-month filing extension

Taxpayers who don’t qualify for an automatic extension can request one in either of these ways:

• Make an electronic payment: Pay all or part of your estimated 2025 tax online and select the option to treat it as an extension payment. This automatically gives you a filing extension to October 15, 2026, without filing a separate form.
• File Form 4868: Submit Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, by April 15, 2026. You can file it electronically (including through IRS Free File or tax software), by mailing a paper form, or through a tax professional.

WHEN DOES TAX SEASON BEGIN?

Tax season starts in late January, when the IRS begins accepting individual tax returns for processing.

Here are some of the key benefits of filing early:

Get Your Refund Sooner

If you expect a refund, filing early increases the chance that you will receive it quickly. Taxpayers who e-file and choose direct deposit often see refunds within a few weeks of IRS acceptance.

More Time to Fix Mistakes or Amend Your Return

If you file early and later discover an error or a missing document, you still have time to correct it and refile before the deadline. Filing at the last minute leaves no room to make changes, which may expose you to penalties if a correction is needed after April 15.

More Time to Pay if You Owe Taxes

If you owe taxes, filing early does not change your payment due date, but it does give you more time to plan for the payment itself. Knowing what you owe earlier in the season can make it easier to prepare for the April 15 deadline.

Reduced Risk of Identity-Theft or Fraud

The sooner you submit and lock in your return, the less time bad actors have to attempt filing false returns under your Social Security number. Early filing helps protect you from that risk.

Less Stress

Starting early takes the pressure off. Instead of scrambling near the deadline, you’ll have time to review everything carefully, get advice if needed, and finish on your own timeline.

GUIDANCE FOR YOUR 2026 TAX PLANNING NEEDS

Whether you file for a household or business, there is no need to dread tax season. Working with an EP Wealth advisor is a great way to incorporate tax-efficient strategies within the broader scope of your overall financial plan. Locate an advisor near you.

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