Why Filing Your Taxes Early in 2026 Could Save You Money and Headaches

The IRS is opening its doors for 2025 tax return submissions on January 26, giving you nearly three months before the April 15 deadline. But here’s the thing—most people wait until the last minute. That’s a mistake.

Submit Your Tax Return Early and Get Your Refund Faster

If you’re expecting a tax refund, timing matters. The sooner you file your tax return, the sooner that money hits your bank account. Filing in late January or early February means you could see your refund within weeks rather than months. While it’s true you might not have all your documents ready in late January, getting your tax return in early still beats the rush. Even if you submit a few weeks into the season, you’ll be ahead of the millions scrambling in March and April.

Protect Yourself From Tax Refund Fraud

Here’s something people don’t always think about: criminals can use your Social Security number to file a fraudulent tax return and steal your refund. Sounds scary, right? But there’s an easy defense—file first. If someone tries to submit a tax return in your name after you’ve already filed, theirs will get rejected as a duplicate. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent becoming a victim of tax fraud.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to have everything perfect to file your tax return early. The key is to submit it sooner rather than later in the season. You’ll get your refund faster, reduce your fraud risk, and avoid the stress of a last-minute scramble. So as soon as you can gather your documents after January 26, consider getting it done.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not tax advice. Consult a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.