For many Americans, taxes are a once-a-year chore, but the IRS is sending a clear message ahead of filing season: don’t wait.

“It’s not too early to get ready for the 2026 tax season,” the agency announced in a release .

The agency encourages taxpayers to start gathering records and organizing financial information now — a move aimed at reducing stress, avoiding errors and speeding up refunds when tax season officially begins.

At a time when major changes — including those from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill — may affect deductions, credits and refund timing, early preparation is especially important.

The IRS emphasizes that simple, advance steps can make the difference between a smooth filing process and a scramble at tax time.

Why now — and what’s different for 2026

The 2026 filing

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