Tax season may arrive during the cooler months, but April 15 comes up quickly. If you live in Houston and are wondering when you can begin filing your taxes and whether filing early is worth it here’s what you need to know for the 2026 season.
When Does Federal Tax Filing Begin?
The IRS began accepting 2025 federal tax returns on January 26, 2026. That means filing season is already open.
Each year, the IRS typically launches tax season in late January or early February. The exact start date depends on system updates, tax law changes, and agency readiness.
What Is the Tax Deadline in 2026?
Tax Day 2026 is April 15.
If you request a filing extension, you’ll get extra time to submit your paperwork — but not extra time to pay. Any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest charges.
What Documents Should You Prepare?
Before filing, gather all required documents, including:
- W-2 forms (for wages or salary)
- 1099 forms (for freelance income, contract work, interest, or investment income)
- Records of deductions and tax credits
- Bank account information for direct deposit refunds
Most refunds are now sent via direct deposit, which is faster and more secure than paper checks.
What About Texas State Taxes?
Texas residents have an advantage — the state does not collect personal income tax. That means you only need to file a federal return unless you own a business or have other specialized tax obligations.
This simplifies the process compared to many other states that require both federal and state filings.
Why Filing Early Is a Smart Move
Even if taxes aren’t your favorite task, filing early has several benefits:
- Get Your Refund Faster
If you’re owed money, filing early helps you receive your refund sooner — useful for paying down debt, saving, or covering household expenses.
- Reduce Identity Theft Risk
Tax-related identity theft remains a concern. Filing early reduces the chance of someone fraudulently filing a return in your name.
- Avoid Last-Minute Delays
As April 15 approaches, IRS systems and support lines become busier. Filing early helps you avoid long wait times and processing delays.
- Prepare for Potential Processing Slowdowns
With staffing changes at the IRS and new tax law adjustments in effect, returns could take longer to process this year — especially complex ones.
- Avoid Higher Tax Prep Fees
Many tax preparation services increase pricing as the deadline nears. Filing earlier may help you avoid those late-season price hikes.
Bottom Line
You can file your 2025 federal tax return right now. For residents in the Greater Houston area, the absence of a state income tax makes the process simpler — but waiting until the last minute can still lead to stress, penalties, or delays.
If you’re unsure about when to file or want to make sure everything is handled correctly the first time, working with a trusted tax accountant in Houston can give you real peace of mind. At The Rascon CPA Firm, we provide personalized tax preparation and strategic tax planning tailored to your unique financial situation. We stay up to date with IRS changes, help you avoid costly mistakes, and identify every legitimate opportunity to maximize your refund or reduce what you owe. Instead of rushing as the deadline approaches, let us guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Contact today to schedule your consultation and file your taxes accurately and on time.
