Learning all the essential tax deadlines and dates in 2026

As the year changes, people are required to learn and keep track of a number of other things, and one of the most important things that you need to know about is all the important tax dates and tax deadlines 2026. If you are not familiar with the tax deadlines in 2026, it can result in a failure to file and pay your taxes at the correct time, and will ultimately result in a penalty or even legal issues for you. Fortunately, we are here to tell you about all the important dates that you need to know related to the tax calendar of the year 2026.

Exploring the tax deadlines in the year 2026

The tax deadlines and dates for the year 2026 depend on your tax situation and the kind of taxes you are filing for. There are different dates that you need to be aware of, whether you are a retired individual, an employee, or self-employed.

Jan. 15, 2026 - Q4 estimated tax payment for 2025 is due for self-employed and other taxpayers whose income is not subject to withholding tax.
Late January 2026 - The estimated beginning of the 2025 tax season. The IRS has not yet given the official beginning date for the 2025 tax year, but normally, it would be late January when the agency starts accepting and processing tax returns.
Jan. 31, 2026 -
Last day for employers to provide W-2 forms: Employers are obliged to issue W-2 tax forms not later than this day (however, yours may still arrive in early February).
Last day to send certain 1099 tax documents: This is also the last day for sending some 1099 tax documents, including Form 1099-NEC that shows self-employment income from side jobs or freelance work. If you earned interest or dividends, rents, royalties, or even prize winnings, you may receive a Form 1099-MISC.
Feb. 17, 2026 - Last day to renew your exemption from withholding. This applies to those who have filed a W-4 with their employer claiming an exemption from withholding. If you wish to continue being exempt from withholding tax, you need to provide your employer with a new W-4 form before this date every year.
April 1, 2026 - The due date for taking the 2025 required minimum distribution from your retirement account if you turned 73 during the preceding year (2025).
April 15, 2026 -
Tax Day is the last tax filing date through mail or electronically, to file or e-file your individual federal income tax return.
The last day for the majority of state tax returns, although there are certain states with exceptions.
The deadline to request a tax extension by submitting Form 4868, to pay any taxes owed from tax year 2025 (even if you're requesting an extension), and to make HSA and IRA contributions for tax year 2025.
The first quarter of 2026 estimated tax payments are due.
June 15, 2026 – To file the second quarter of tax payments in 2026.
Sept. 15, 2026 - To file the third quarter estimated payments of 2026.