IRS Urges Early Prep as 2026 Tax Rules Shift
Internal Revenue Service advises taxpayers to prepare now for filing changes, including direct-deposit refunds, updated tax laws and new child savings accounts.
WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service is urging the public to take action now and start preparing for the 2026 tax filing season as new policy shifts, filing options and other major changes go into effect.
"Tax planning is for everyone," the IRS noted. "... Planning ahead can help you file an accurate return and avoid delays that can slow your tax refund," the agency said.
For many Americans, tax season feels like a once-a-year headache.
But the IRS is stressing that this year is worth preparing for early – not just because of the upcoming April 15 deadline, but also because a mix of new tax laws and changes to how refunds are delivered will affect nearly every filer.
The agency kicked off its Get Ready campaign, urging taxpayers to visit the dedicated section on IRS.gov for checklists, updates and no-cost filing options well before tax season begins.
Set up direct deposit
The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks – meaning, if you've formerly relied on paper checks to receive your refund, that's no longer an option.
Instead of waiting until the last minute to set up a bank account so they can be prepared to receive direct deposit, the IRS is encouraging tax filers to get ahead of it now.
Review 2025 tax law changes
Recent legislation includes several new tax deductions and credits that may reduce your tax bill or increase your refund.
The IRS is encouraging the public to review tax provisions to be prepared for any changes that might affect them.
The domestic policy mega-bill President Donald Trump signed into law last year has reshaped parts of the tax code in ways that will matter on your 2025 return.
From deductions to credits, these changes can affect how much you owe or the size of your refund. But they only help if you understand them.
Understanding new digital assets reporting requirements
If you've bought, sold or received cryptocurrency, NFTs or other digital assets, these aren't just online hobbies – they're taxable.
The IRS requires those transactions to be reported on your return, even if you don't receive paperwork from a broker.
Similarly, income from payment apps and online marketplaces is taxable – and you might receive a Form 1099-K if your activity meets certain thresholds.
The bottom line? Digital income still counts. And reporting it correctly now can prevent IRS headaches later.
Trump accounts: What to know
A lesser-known but potentially impactful change outlined on the IRS notice involves Trump accounts – a new type of retirement savings vehicle for children with valid Social Security numbers.
These accounts can receive a one-time government contribution of $1,000 for eligible kids born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028.
Parents and guardians may want to learn more about these options sooner rather than later.
Get familiar with your IRS online account
The IRS advises filers to familiarize themselves with their IRS Individual Online Accounts.
Available 24/7, these accounts let you check your tax records, make payments, manage communication preferences, and protect sensitive information – all before tax season chaos hits.
Having this account ready now can reduce last-minute stress and help you spot potential issues early.
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