01/26/2026
A few things to be aware of for income tax filing this year:
1. If you owe tax with your 2025 tax return or if you need to pay 2026 quarterly estimated tax payments, the IRS will no longer be accepting paper checks. Be prepared to provide your bank account info to your tax preparer if you have not already, so direct debit can be setup for the amount you owe. Bank name, routing number, and account number are needed. We can also setup scheduled estimated payments through our tax software. The IRS is also asking for all refunds to be directly deposited into bank accounts. Refunds by check will be significantly delayed.
There is another system to pay the IRS online through the IRS website for the amount you owe and quarterly estimates, that also allows you to pay with a credit card. Just be aware that this system will charge additional fees, and you will need to set that up on your own.
2. For 2025 income tax returns - there are new deductions and
adjustments to income available for seniors, qualified overtime, tip income, and car loan interest on new cars purchased in 2025. Please make sure to bring in the necesary information if any of these new items apply to you.
Specific to overtime, please make sure your employer provides you with the necessary information, your tax preparer cannot estimate this or calculate this for you. This is not required to be shown on your 2025 W-2, so you may need to ask for year-end check stubs or other intormation from your employer.
3. E-filing officially opened today for 2025 income tax returns - some returns will be delayed as the IRS and the state finalize tax forms. As always, please wait until you receive all of your relevant tax information prior to delivering your materials for tax preparation.
