The IRS Get Ready campaign offers tips, reminders, and new information on what you need to prepare for the 2026 tax filing season. Among the changes and additions the OBBBA brings are tax deductions for tips, overtime, car loan interest, and seniors.
Here are tips to prepare for filing season:
- Access or log in to an existing IRS online account securely to access personal tax information, including recently filed returns. Through this tool, you can:
- View tax records, including adjusted gross income and transcripts.
- Make, schedule, and view payments.
- Get or view your Identity Protection PIN.
- Authorize a tax professional to access tax records digitally.
- Access available Forms W-2 and certain 1099s.
- View and edit communication preferences from the IRS like using Braille or large print.
- Receive and view over 200 IRS digital notices.
- Set up or change payment plans and check their balance.
- Gather and organize tax records to help file complete and accurate tax returns and avoid tax errors that could delay refunds. Doing so can help you identify deductions or credits you may have overlooked.
- Most income is taxable, including unemployment compensation, refund interest, and income from the gig economy, as well as digital assets.
- Watch for and gather essential forms: W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, and other income documents as they become available in 2026.
Get a head start and seek professional help!
Start early on tax preparation to avoid last-minute stress. Note significant changes, gather documents, and decide how to file. A little advance work, preparing and organizing information, can help with filing your returns quickly and accurately.
Of course, this is just a tip-of-the-iceberg summary. Tax prep is not a DIY event; be sure to get advice from a professional CPA.
For more information about Estate Taxes, visit our FAQ page here: https://mackaydressler.com/resources/faqs/estate-tax/
Bridget has been practicing law for over 25 years. After graduating from Santa Clara Law, she spent 10 years as a Deputy District attorney in both Solano and Sonoma Counties. After the birth of her daughter, her priorities changed, and she began a practice in estate planning and Medi-Cal benefits planning. This transition was a natural fit and all her skills of listening, compassion and fearless pursuit on behalf of her clients translated well to this area of law. She lives in Petaluma with her daughter and Australian Shepherd, Joey. Read More!
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