2026 Tax Guide: Learn About the Changes Before Filing Your Return

• The new 2026 tax season brings important changes for taxpayers
• New deductions may reduce the overall tax burden
• Preparing ahead of time helps avoid errors and refund delays

The Internal Revenue Service has released a series of recommendations for taxpayers who will need to file their returns next year.

Changes introduced by a new federal law may directly affect workers, families, and seniors, making it essential to understand them in advance to avoid surprises when filing.

2026 Tax Guide: Deductions You Should Know About

Among the most relevant changes are new temporary deductions in effect between 2025 and 2028.

• One of them allows taxpayers to deduct interest paid on loans used to purchase a qualifying vehicle, benefiting those who rely on a car for work or transportation.
• Another new deduction applies to tips, allowing taxpayers to deduct up to $25,000 per year. This benefit applies only to occupations included on the Treasury Department’s list and is gradually phased out for taxpayers earning more than $150,000.
• A deduction for overtime pay has also been introduced. Workers may deduct up to $12,500 in overtime earnings, or up to $25,000 for joint filers. Like other deductions, this benefit is reduced for higher-income taxpayers and requires including a valid Social Security number when filing.

Changes to the 2026 Tax Return

The Child Tax Credit has increased from $2,000 to $2,200, providing additional support for households with dependents.

In addition, adults aged 65 and older who earn no more than $75,000 per year will be eligible for an additional $6,000 deduction.

These measures aim to ease the tax burden on specific groups, especially families and seniors who rely on fixed or limited incomes.

U.S. Tax Dilemma 🇺🇸💸 The Trump administration is pressuring state governments to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay, and auto loan interest. The goal is to align local laws with the federal tax cut totaling $4.5 trillion… pic.twitter.com/ms0Rn3JPjR

— La Opinión Diario de la Mañana (@laopinionpuebla) December 19, 2025

You may also like: Key Credits and Refunds That Could Increase by More Than $1,000 in the 2026 Tax Season

Tips for Organizing Your Return and Using IRS Tools

The IRS recommends creating or accessing an online account to review personal tax information, recent returns, transcripts, and payments. This tool also allows taxpayers to set up payment plans, receive digital notices, and view certain forms such as W-2s and some 1099s.

Keeping documents organized helps ensure a complete and accurate return. Most income is taxable, including unemployment benefits, interest, and informal earnings, making it essential to gather all relevant documentation.

An Opportunity for Hispanics in the U.S.

Many Latino households rely on tips, overtime pay, or multiple income sources. These new deductions can result in a lower tax bill or a larger refund if applied correctly.

🚨🇺🇸 | THE RIP-OFF IS OVER: Trump announces the largest tax cut in history and returns money to Americans: “American families will be able to save between $11,000 and $20,000 per year.” pic.twitter.com/m6cndIw9Ow

— La Derecha Diario Estados Unidos (@DerechaDiarioUS) December 18, 2025

In addition, the increase in the Child Tax Credit and deductions for seniors benefit multigenerational households—a structure that is common within the Hispanic community.

What’s Next

Although the IRS has not announced an exact start date, it typically begins accepting returns toward the end of January.

Use this 2026 tax guide, and remember that the deadline to file your return—without requesting an extension—will be April 15, 2026.