Gather Your Documents
Organize income forms, dependent information, expense records, and your prior-year filed return.
View Resource →Tax Year 2026 · Returns Filed in 2027
2026 Taxpayer Guide
A clear starting point for your documents, credits, deadlines, and tax-preparation appointment.
Reviewed October 24, 2026 · Select a topic for full details.
Review Credits & Eligibility
Explore CTC amounts by qualifying children and EITC limits. Eligibility and your complete return determine the credit.
View Resource →Find Your Federal Tax Brackets
See 2026 ordinary-income rates by filing status and how rates apply in layers to taxable income.
View Resource →Check Filing & Payment Deadlines
Review general deadlines, estimated-tax dates, extensions, and situations that need a separate deadline check.
View Resource →Get Help With an IRS Notice
Have every notice page ready, identify the response date, and discuss the appropriate next steps.
View Resource →Choose a Preparer
Discuss your filing needs, scope, fees, and how to deliver sensitive documents securely.
View Resource →Before your tax-preparation appointment
- Identify the tax years and returns you need help with, and note major family or income changes.
- Bring last year’s Form 1040, schedules, and state return if applicable. Let your preparer know if you have never filed.
- Tell your preparer about missing forms, IRS notices, or approaching deadlines.
- Arrange sensitive document delivery directly with your preparer; this website does not currently have an upload portal.
Official sources & scope
This guide organizes practical starting points, not every tax rule or filing obligation. State rules, fiscal years, disaster relief, and individual circumstances may change what applies. Review the linked guidance for your tax year.