How early can you file taxes & what are the benefits of filing early?

Tax season might not be anyone's favorite time of year, but getting a head start can make a big difference—especially for families who want to make the most of what they've earned. Whether you're expecting a refund or just want peace of mind, knowing when you can file is the first step toward a smoother, more thoughtful season.

In this article, we cover how soon you can file your tax return and the benefits of getting a head start.

In general, the earliest you can file taxes is as soon as the IRS starts accepting e-filed tax returns. This date changes year to year, but it typically falls sometime between late January and early February. The start date for the 2026 tax season is expected to be Feb. 16, 2026, but this is still unconfirmed. Most taxpayers can e-file starting on that date.

Here are the key dates and estimated timelines to help you plan.

• IRS filing start date: Feb. 16, 2026 (expected)
• Filing deadline: April 15, 2026 (individual tax returns) not including extensions
• Refund timeline if you e-file and direct deposit: 21 days or fewer (you also can track your refund almost right away)
• Refund timeline if you mail your return: often 6 weeks or more

If you're curious how these timelines might interact with your retirement income and other long-term financial goals, check out our guide to taxes in retirement.

Preparing to file taxes early follows the same steps as regular filing—gather W-2s, 1099s and other required documents before the IRS start date. The goal is to be ready as soon as the IRS opens the season, or soon thereafter.

However, remember that you cannot file until you have the required forms. Fortunately, employers must send W-2s by January 31, and most employers and financial institutions issue 1099s by the same date.

To get started, here's what you'll need:

• W-2s, 1099s and other income statements
• Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse (if married) and any dependents
• Records for tax deductions and credits, such as receipts for charitable distributions or 1098s for your mortgage interest deduction or education tax credits
• A copy of last year's tax return (not required, but requested if someone new is preparing your return)

Filing early isn't just about being first in line. It can offer some real advantages, such as:

• Less risk of tax-related identity theft. The IRS processes tax returns on a first-come, first-served basis. Filing early reduces the chance that a criminal can file a fraudulent return in your name before you do.
• Avoiding last-minute errors. Procrastination often leads to rushed tax filing. Getting ahead of the deadline gives you time to double-check forms, confirm deductions and avoid mistakes.
• Extra time to resolve issues. If the IRS rejects your return due to mismatched information or errors, filing early provides a cushion to make corrections without the stress of a looming deadline.
• Faster refunds. The IRS processes most e-filed returns with direct deposit within 21 days. The earlier you file, the sooner the IRS issues your refund.
• Better planning for budget or major financial decisions. Knowing your refund amount (or how much you owe) earlier can help you plan for big purchases, adjust withholdings or align your broader financial goals.

Filing early ultimately gives you more control by ensuring you're not scrambling in April. Instead, you're making informed choices that support your financial plan.

It's tempting to file your tax return as soon as the IRS starts accepting returns, but doing so without all your required documents can cause more of a headache than it's worth. Filing before you receive your W-2s, 1099s or other official statements often leads to errors like reporting incorrect income. And mistakes can cause the IRS to reject your return or delay your refund.

You should receive your W-2s and 1099s in early February. If you're missing any forms, the IRS recommends contacting your employer or the issuing agency to request a copy. Often, employers and financial institutions send these forms via email or make them available in an online account, rather than mailing them. Be sure to check there as well.

For the smoothest process, wait until you've gathered all your official documents before filing.

Filing early has its advantages, but it doesn't guarantee an accurate return. If you discover an error or receive an amended tax form after submitting your return, you can correct it by filing an amended return using Form 1040-X.

Here's how the process works:

1. Wait for the IRS to process your original return. Filing an amended return before the IRS processes your original return can result in mix-ups at the IRS and delays in any potential refunds.
2. Complete Form 1040-X. This form allows you to correct mistakes or update information on your return. Follow the Instructions for Form 1040-X or work with a professional who can prepare the paperwork on your behalf.
3. Attach supporting documents. You'll need to attach any new or corrected W-2s, 1099s or other schedules relating to the change.
4. File electronically or by mail. The IRS now accepts e-filed amended returns for most taxpayers.

Filing early offers benefits like faster refunds and reduced risk of fraud, but accuracy is more important than speed. An incorrect return can result in processing delays, penalties or even correspondence from the IRS. So take the time to file carefully and enjoy the confidence that comes with getting it right.

If you're due a refund, filing early usually means you'll receive it sooner. The IRS issues most refunds for electronically filed returns with direct deposit within 21 days. Filing later in the season can mean waiting a little longer, since that's when the IRS processes the highest volume of returns.

Keep in mind that claiming certain tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit, can delay refunds. By law, the IRS can't issue refunds for these credits before mid-February. That built-in delay gives the IRS more time to double-check returns, since these credits are frequent targets of tax-related identity thieves.

To check the status of your refund, the IRS has an online Where's My Refund? tool. It allows you to track your return from acceptance through refund issuance, keeping you in the loop while you wait.

Filing your taxes early can help you get a faster refund, give you more time to resolve potential issues and make tax time less stressful. But timing is only part of the equation. Accuracy and alignment with your overall financial strategy matter most.

If you need help understanding how early filing aligns with your short-term cash flow and long-term financial goals, connect with a Thrivent financial advisor. They can offer additional tax resources and personalized guidance tailored to your current circumstances and future plans.