IRS urges taxpayers to plan ahead to simplify future filing

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is urging taxpayers to take straightforward steps now that can make filing easier later and help prevent unpleasant surprises at tax time.

Keeping up with tax planning throughout the year can help people stay organized, understand how changes in income or personal circumstances may affect their taxes, and get ready for filing season. Publication 5349-A, Year-Round Tax Planning is for Everyone, includes practical guidance and IRS resources for use all year long.

“Taxpayers should plan ahead to ensure their tax filing season goes as smoothly as possible,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano. “A few simple steps now, such as checking withholding, organizing records, using IRS online tools, and protecting personal information, will help taxpayers prepare for the 2027 filing season and know they are ready to fulfill their tax obligations.”

Review withholding and estimated payments

Federal income taxes are generally paid during the year as income is earned. Taxpayers can use the Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov to see whether the correct amount of federal income tax is being withheld from their pay.

It is also wise to revisit withholding after major life or income changes, such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, or a job change. Those who need to adjust withholding should give their employer a new Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Certificate.

People with income not subject to withholding, including small business owners, self-employed taxpayers, and gig economy workers, may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments.

Life events can also affect filing status, eligibility for tax credits and deductions, and the amount of tax owed or refunded. Reviewing these changes before filing season can help taxpayers better understand their federal income tax return.

Use IRS online tools

Taxpayers can securely access tax information and handle many routine tasks through the IRS Individual Online Account. Depending on the account, users can:

• View balance information
• Make and view payments
• Review payment plans
• View certain IRS notices and letters
• Access certain tax records
• Request an Identity Protection PIN

IRS.gov/Tools also offers resources to check refund status, find tax records and transcripts, explore free tax preparation options, and learn about tax credits, deductions, and filing status.

Get organized for a smoother filing season

Good recordkeeping is one of the simplest ways to prepare for filing season. Taxpayers should create an easy system, either electronic or on paper, to keep important tax records together as they receive them.

Records may include:

• Forms W-2 from employers.
• Forms 1099 from banks and other payers.
• Records of digital asset transactions.
• A copy of last year’s federal and state returns.
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit or payments.
• IRS notices, letters, and other correspondence.
• Records that support credits, deductions, or other tax benefits claimed.

Well-organized records can make return preparation easier and may also help taxpayers identify credits or deductions they might otherwise miss.

Watch out for scams

The IRS and its Security Summit partners are reminding taxpayers to safeguard their personal and financial information. Scammers may try to steal information or money through email, text messages, phone calls, or social media.

Taxpayers should avoid clicking links or opening attachments in unexpected messages that claim to be from the IRS. Suspicious emails and texts can be reported to [email protected]. Taxpayers can also use IRS.gov/SubmitATip to report certain tax-related misconduct.