What You Need to Know About 2026 Tax Filing Changes

With each new year comes a set of IRS and Treasury rule changes—some small, some significant—that can affect how and when you file your tax returns. While these updates may not have received much publicity, a few could materially impact both individual and business taxpayers. 

Proof of Timely Filing: New Postal Rules

The Postal Service changed how it postmarks mail starting in December 2025. Mail is now postmarked based on when it’s processed at a regional sorting facility, not when it’s placed in a collection box. This means dropping your envelope at the post office near midnight on April 15 no longer guarantees a timely postmark.

To avoid late-filing penalties, taxpayers should:

·         File electronically — the fastest method, providing immediate confirmation from the IRS.

·         Request proof of mailing — options include a certificate of mailing, certified mail (with return receipt), or Priority Mail with tracking.

·         Use an approved private delivery service — the IRS maintains a current list of approved carriers here.

Refunds Go Digital

Under a March 2025 Executive Order, Treasury is transitioning all payments—including tax refunds—away from paper checks to secure electronic transfers. Beginning with 2025 tax refunds, most individuals will receive funds by direct deposit or potentially via digital wallets. Paper checks are being phased out for individual taxpayers, though they continue for trusts, estates, and corporations.

If you haven’t done so already, provide your bank routing and account information when filing to avoid delays. And because Treasury’s implementation timeline continues to evolve, check with your tax preparer to ensure compliance.

Paying Taxes: Still Multiple Options

While Treasury is evaluating the possibility of phasing out paper checks for taxes due, individuals and trusts may still pay by mail or online. Accepted payment options include:

·         Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) — required for large payments.

·         IRS Direct Pay — a secure, no-fee online payment tool.

·         Credit or debit card payments — available, though subject to processing fees.

Creating an IRS Online Account is also recommended. This provides access to payment history, prior returns, refund status, IP PIN applications, and installment agreement setup.

IRS Direct File: Program Ended

The IRS Direct File pilot, which allowed certain taxpayers to file simple returns directly with the IRS, ended in November 2025. However, several no-cost filing options remain:

·         IRS Free File through partner software.

·         Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

·         IRS Free Fillable Forms for those comfortable preparing returns manually.

Many of the 2026 filing season’s changes aim to modernize submission and payment systems, but they also narrow the margin for error. Plan ahead, confirm mailing and payment methods, and consult your tax professional to ensure a smooth and compliant filing experience.

 Have an IRS Tax Problem?

     Contact the Tax Lawyers at

Marini & Associates, P.A. 

for a FREE Tax HELP Contact us at:
www.TaxAid.com or www.OVDPLaw.com
or Toll Free at 888 8TAXAID (888-882-9243)

Once Again The IRS Identifies Debt Resolution Companies as Scams on Its 2026 "Dirty Dozen List"

On July 16, 2020 we posted IRS Identifies Debt Resolution Companies as Scams on 2020 Dirty Dozen List!, where we discussed that the IRS 2020 "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams for 2020 included Offer in Compromise Mills and advises Americans to be vigilant to these threats.

Now 6 years later in IR-2026-30, the IRS 2026 "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams STILL includes Offer in Compromise Mills! 

Offer in Compromise Mills: Taxpayers need to wary of misleading tax debt resolution companies that can exaggerate chances to settle tax debts for “pennies on the dollar” through an Offer in Compromise (OIC). These offers are available for taxpayers who meet very specific criteria under law to qualify for reducing their tax bill.  

But Unscrupulous Companies Oversell The Program To Unqualified Candidates So They Can Collect A Hefty Fee From Taxpayers Already Struggling With Debt.

These scams are commonly called OIC “mills,” which cast a wide net for taxpayers, charge them pricey fees and churn out applications for a program they’re unlikely to qualify for. 

"Offer Mills" can aggressively promote Offers in Compromise in misleading ways to people who clearly don't meet the qualifications, frequently costing taxpayers thousands of dollars. 

Although the OIC program helps thousands of taxpayers each year reduce their tax debt, not everyone qualifies for an OIC. 

The Agency's Rejection Rate is Roughly 67% .

Individual taxpayers can use the free online Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool to see if they qualify. The simple tool allows taxpayers to confirm eligibility and provides an estimated offer amount. 

Taxpayers can apply for an OIC without third-party representation; but the IRS reminds taxpayers that if they need help, they should be cautious about whom they hire.

Have a Real Tax Problem?

 

Contact REAL Tax Attorneys!

 

 

Marini & Associates, P.A.   

 for a FREE Tax Consultation contact us at:
www.TaxAid.com or www.OVDPLaw.com or
Toll Free at 888-8TaxAid (888) 882-9243