Get Ready for the 2026 Tax Filing Season

Tax season is officially approaching, and a little preparation now can make filing smoother and less stressful later.

The 2026 tax filing season opens Monday, January 26, 2026, and appointments at Goodman Bookkeeping & Tax Services begin Monday, February 2. Taking a few simple steps now can help ensure your return is accurate and processed without delays.

2026 Tax Filing Season: Steps to Take Before Your Appointment

Access your IRS Online Account

The IRS Individual Online Account allows you to view tax records, manage payments, and protect your tax information. Having access ahead of time can be helpful if questions come up during filing.

Gather and organize your tax documents

Start pulling together important records, including:

• W-2s from employers

• 1099 forms for interest, dividends, unemployment, retirement income, or contract work

• Income records from side jobs or gig work

• Documentation related to digital assets such as cryptocurrency or online transactions

Being organized helps speed up preparation and reduces the chance of missing information.

Review 2025 tax law changes

Recent tax law updates may affect deductions, credits, and eligibility requirements. Some credits now require valid Social Security numbers or ITINs issued by the return due date. These details matter and can impact your refund or tax owed.

Understand reporting requirements

Income from part-time work, gig platforms, or digital transactions is generally taxable. Even if you do not receive every tax form you expect, income may still need to be reported.

Check your ITIN status

If your ITIN was not used on a tax return for 2022, 2023, or 2024, it may have expired at the end of 2025 and could need renewal before filing.

Plan for direct deposit

The IRS continues moving away from paper refund checks. Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your refund.

Schedule Early

Appointments at Goodman Bookkeeping & Tax Services begin February 2, 2026. Scheduling early helps avoid last-minute stress and ensures you have time to address any questions or missing documents.

If you need help preparing or want to get on the schedule, reach out to our office. We are here to guide you through the process.