2026 tax return dates and deadlines

The Form 1040 tax return deadline: April 15, 2027

Start 2026 return

Official IRS tax dates

Mark your calendar with these official IRS tax dates.

Pending IRS announcement

IRS starts processing taxes

April 15, 2027

Filing deadline for 2026 taxes

October 15, 2027

Deadline for extension filers

State payment deadlines vary

States are still updating their payment deadlines, and each state might have a different deadline.

Learn more

When does tax season start?

The filing season for 2026 tax returns starts on a date soon to be determined by the IRS. The IRS will begin processing tax returns on that day.

When are taxes due?

Federal taxes for the 2026 tax year are due on April 15, 2027. You can use Express1040 to file your federal taxes completely free. Start a 2026 return

How do I extend my 2026 taxes?

If you are unable to file your individual taxes by April 15, 2027, you will still be able to file an extension. Start free extension

After you have filed an extension, you have until October 15, 2027 to file your federal and state taxes. You can use Express1040 any time until the October 15, 2027 deadline to file an extended tax return.

What happens if you miss the IRS deadline?

If you miss both the April 15, 2027 and the October 15, 2027 deadline, don't worry. You're not alone. You can still file your taxes. Just go to our prior years page and select which tax year you want to file. After that we'll walk you through all the steps you need to complete your prior year tax returns. You may be able to e-file; if not you'll have to print out your tax forms and mail them into the IRS.

Is it too late to file past year taxes?

It is not too late to file back taxes. You can use Express1040 to file taxes from 2026 all the way back to 2019. Use our prior year software to file whichever year you missed. Most people even have a refund waiting for them, and the best part is it only costs $18.99. Provide your tax documents and fill out the information and we'll take care of all the calculations. Then print your tax return and mail it to the IRS.