It’s tax time again. Forms are arriving. Logins are unlocking. Coffee is brewing. Here’s a quick, practical rundown of what matters for your 2025 return (filed in 2026) and a few simple steps to make filing smoother.

New and notable this season

One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act: Tax deductions for working Americans and seniors

• “No tax on tips” (qualified tip income deduction):
  A new above-the-line deduction allows eligible workers to deduct qualified tip income for tax years 2025 through 2028, even if they take the standard deduction. Tips are still taxable and must be reported, but income limits, annual caps, and employer reporting rules apply.
• “No tax on overtime” (qualified overtime pay deduction):
  Eligible taxpayers can deduct certain qualified overtime pay, generally the premium portion required by federal labor law. This is an above-the-line deduction with income phaseouts and reporting requirements, not a full exclusion of overtime from tax.
• “No tax on car loan interest” (qualified vehicle loan interest deduction):
  For 2025 through 2028, taxpayers may deduct up to $10,000 of interest paid on a qualifying loan for a new, personal-use vehicle, even if they do not itemize. The loan, vehicle, and taxpayer must meet specific requirements, and the deduction phases out at higher income levels.
• Additional deduction for seniors (age-based additional deduction):
  Taxpayers age 65 and older may qualify for a new additional deduction through 2028, on top of the existing senior standard deduction. This benefit is income-limited and applies whether or not you itemize.

Other important filing updates (not part of the Act)

• Marketplace health insurance (Premium Tax Credit reconciliation):
  If you had coverage through a state or federal marketplace in 2025, you must wait for Form 1095-A and reconcile any advance Premium Tax Credit on your return. Filing without it or using estimates can delay processing or cause corrections.

Watch your mailbox (and inbox)

Most tax forms land by the end of January. Some arrive later. Common ones to look for:

• W-2 from your employer
• 1099-NEC/1099-MISC for freelance or gig income
• 1099-INT/1099-DIV for bank and investment income
• 1099-B or a consolidated investment statement (often comes in February, and corrected versions can follow)
• 1095-A for marketplace health coverage (essential if you got advance credits)

Match the name and Social Security number on your forms to your return. If you moved in 2025, make sure companies have your new address so forms don’t go missing.

Refund timing reminders

• Electronic filing with direct deposit is generally the fastest route.
• If you claim the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, federal law typically delays those refunds until at least mid-February. That’s normal.
• Simple, accurate returns move quicker. Double-check Social Security numbers, bank info, and any dependent details before you hit “submit.”

Simple prep moves that help

• Create a single folder (digital or paper) and drop every tax form into it as it arrives.
• Save year-end statements for savings, investments, student loans, and mortgages. Interest and dividend totals often show up there.
• Wait for corrected investment forms if your broker warns one is coming. Filing once is better than filing twice.
• Have last year’s return handy. You’ll need numbers like your prior-year AGI to e-file.

For small-business owners and gig workers

• New mileage rate for 2026: The IRS set the 2026 standard mileage rate for business use at 72.5 cents per mile starting January 1, 2026. That matters for the miles you’re logging now for next year’s return.
• Interest expense rules: The IRS updated FAQs on the business interest limitation under the new law. If interest is a big line item in your books, watch for how those changes affect your deduction.

Keep an eye on announcements

The IRS typically releases more filing-season details in January, including updates on forms, credits, and processing times. A quick check before you file can save time later.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal, financial, or tax advice.

An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number issued by the IRS to safeguard your federal tax return from identity theft and fraud. It ensures that only you, or someone you authorize, can file a tax return using your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Why is an IP PIN Important?

Tax-related identity theft is on the rise, and fraudsters are constantly looking for ways to file false returns to claim refunds. An IP PIN acts as a lock on your tax account, blocking unauthorized returns. Without the correct IP PIN, the IRS will reject any e-filed return or delay the processing of paper returns with your SSN.

Who Should Get an IP PIN?

• Victims of tax-related identity theft
• Anyone who wants to proactively protect their tax return
• Taxpayers who want extra peace of mind during tax season

How to Get an IP PIN

You can obtain an IP PIN through the IRS’s Get an IP PIN tool. The process requires identity verification, including access to your tax and financial records. Once enrolled, you will receive a new IP PIN each calendar year.

Important Things to Remember

• Never share your IP PIN with anyone other than your trusted tax preparer.
• Keep your IP PIN in a secure place – it is valid for one year only.
• The IRS will never ask for your IP PIN via phone, email, or text.
• An IP PIN is not mandatory for most taxpayers but is available for added protection.

Adding an IP PIN to your tax filing routine is a simple step that provides strong protection against fraud. If you have not already, consider applying for one today!

Summer wedding bells may have just finished ringing, but tax season will be here before you know it. As newlyweds, it’s important to make a few key updates now to ensure a hassle-free tax filing experience next year. Here’s a quick IRS-backed checklist to help you start married life on a financially smart note.

1. Update Your Name with the SSA

If either of you changed your name, be sure to report it to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Your name and Social Security number must match on your tax return to avoid processing delays.

2. Update Your Address

Moved in together? Let the IRS and the U.S. Postal Service know your new address. Use IRS Form 8822 to notify the IRS directly.

3. Notify Employers

Make sure your employers update your name and address on W-2s. This ensures accurate reporting of your income.

4. Check Your Withholding

Your combined income may bump you into a higher tax bracket. Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to make adjustments via Form W-4. Doing this now can prevent an unexpected tax bill later.

5. Decide How to File

Most couples benefit from filing jointly, but it’s worth considering both options. Filing separately might make sense if one spouse has significant medical expenses or miscellaneous deductions.

6. Consider the Bigger Picture

Buying a home? Starting a business? Adding dependents? All of these life changes come with tax implications. It’s a good time to speak with a tax professional to make a plan tailored for your new life together.

7. Protect Your Identity

Consider signing up for an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This extra step helps prevent tax-related identity theft.

Getting married is a huge milestone. Make sure your taxes reflect your new status to avoid surprises and potentially save money down the road. Congrats, and may your future be as financially smooth as your honeymoon was sweet!